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Address at Johns Hopkins University: "Peace Without Conquest"

Date: April 7, 1965
Location: Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland
Speaker: President Lyndon B. Johnson
Audience: Members of Congress, Faculty, Students, General Public

Introduction

President Lyndon B. Johnson opens the address by acknowledging various dignitaries including Mr. Garland, Senators Brewster and Tydings, and the congregated faculty and students. He conveys the importance of the meeting in light of the geopolitical situation in Southeast Asia, specifically referencing the interest of 17 nations in that region.

American Policy on Vietnam

President Johnson asserts that the American policy aims to contribute to peace in Southeast Asia. He emphasizes the core belief that every people should have the liberty to choose their own path to change, tied back to the nation's foundational principles for which previous generations fought.

Current State of America and Vietnam

Johnson reflects on the painful necessity of war, stating that young Americans are sacrificing their lives in Vietnam for the sake of freedom and independence. He notes that:

  • The conflict in Vietnam is brutal and far removed from American territory, with 400 American lives lost.

  • The war's outcomes are vital not just for Vietnam but for the world, asserting that establishing a world where each can shape their own destiny is crucial to ensuring American freedoms.

Nature of the Conflict

Johnson states that:

  • North Vietnam is waging an attack against South Vietnam with a clear goal of total conquest. Despite some internal dissent, the primary conflict is characterized by outside aggression from North Vietnam.

  • The brutality of this conflict is emphasized, where civilians, particularly farmers, women, and children, suffer dreadfully as a result of this aggression.

Communist Threat

The war is further complicated by the involvement of Communist China, with references to historical aggressions such as:

  • The destruction of freedom in Tibet, aggression towards India, and actions condemned by the United Nations concerning Korea.

  • Johnson frames Vietnam as part of a broader struggle against a pattern of aggressive purposes promoted by communism across various continents.

Reasons for U.S. Involvement in Vietnam

Johnson outlines multiple reasons for U.S. involvement:

  1. Historical Commitment: Since 1954, every American President has pledged support to South Vietnam's independence.

  2. Strengthening World Order: U.S. withdrawal would shake global confidence in America's commitment, risking additional unrest and conflict.

  3. Counteracting Aggression: There is a clear lesson that aggression, if unchecked, will continue to spread. Withdrawing could create a domino effect, leading to further conflicts across Southeast Asia.

Johnson uses biblical phrases to underline the U.S.'s stance against aggression, stressing that the U.S. will not yield to such pressures.

Objectives in Vietnam

Johnson states the objective of U.S. involvement:

  • Independence and Freedom: The independence of South Vietnam is paramount, with no intentions of territorial gain.

  • Necessary Action Against Aggression: Due to escalated attacks, the U.S. has increased its military response. It is crucial to emphasize that this is not a shift in objectives but a recalibration of means to achieve stated ends.

  • Democracy and Independence: The people of South Vietnam should freely direct their future without foreign interference.

Approach to Conflict and Peace

  • The President recognizes the futility of military hostility alone and advocates for a more extended conflict that might require patience and bravery, reflecting on historical struggles against tyranny and aggression.

  • He expresses hope for peace but underscores the necessity of the U.S. remaining resolute until such peace is achieved.

  • Acknowledges that military actions are based on the broader goal of promoting lasting peace and that the ultimate solution should involve no external influences on South Vietnam.

Development and Cooperation

Johnson emphasizes the need for development efforts alongside military actions, highlighting:

  • The potential for cooperative economic development in Southeast Asia to combat poverty and instability.

  • U.S. commitment to invest significantly in this development, urging other nations, including the Soviet Union, to engage collaboratively.

  • The envisioned benefits of cooperative efforts in improving health, education, and agriculture for the impoverished population in Southeast Asia.

The Dream of World Order

Johnson articulates a vision for a world governed by law and reason rather than conflict, detailing:

  • The historical context of nations' enduring feuds but affirming a commitment to peace and cooperation.

  • Advocating for human dignity and prosperity through peaceful association, emphasizing the shared aspirations of people across nations.

Conclusion

In closing remarks, Johnson emphasizes:

  • The realization of progress cannot solely rely on military power but rather the collective ability to build and support life and growth.

  • He articulates a hope that this generation can choose life and coexistence rather than destruction, underlining the moral and ethical implications of the choices made.

  • Johnson invites audiences to reflect on their contributions toward unity and peace. He invokes historical quotes to reinforce this plea, advocating for a conscious choice between constructive coexistence or destructive conflict.

The President concludes with gratitude towards the audience for the platform to share these important thoughts, leaving the audience contemplating their role in this collective journey toward peace.