Origin of Vietnam War

Between the 18th to 19th century, the European powers establish their influence in Southeast Asia. 

The modern state of Vietnam was French ruled, known as Indochina which was conquered and controlled by the French government in 1862 to 1904.

These were the conditions when the French colonial ruled Indochina.

1. Western education and healthcare

2. Resource exploitation

3. Heavy local taxes

4. Exclusive control over trades of salt, opium, rice and alcohol

Several attempts were made to overthrow the French government, but none was successful.

In WW2, France was defeated by Germany in 1940. Japan, an ally of Germany, wanted French Indochina for its resources and strategic positions.

As such, Japan invaded northern Vietnam in September 1940 before they came to an armistice and agreement with the French Indochina colonial government.

The French government was aligned with Vichy France, a new government set up after the defeat of France. Vichy France was aligned to the Nazis in Germany. 

The French and Japanese rule was harsh on Vietnam. As such, various groups emerged to resist the French and Japanese. 

One being known as:

• Viet Minh, who was led by Ho Chi Minh.

Viet Minh, known as the League for the Independence of Vietnam, was a nationalist movement that aimed to achieve independence.

It is made up of 2 main groups;

1. Non-communist who wants to drive the Japanese out of Vietnam due to self-rule

2. Communist who wanted to establish an independent communist state

Viet Minh receives money, weapons and supplies;

1. United States

2. USSR

3. Guomindang [GMD] government in China

Knowing that China was anti-communist, they support Viet Minh as their common enemy is Japan.