Explain Why America became increasingly involved in the affairs of Vietnam between 1954 and 1965

The first 200 words of this essay...

Lucy Cadd 9117 GCSE Coursework: Vietnam post 1939

Canford School, 55243

Explain Why America became increasingly involved in the affairs of Vietnam between 1954 and 1965

American involvement with Vietnam began in 1945, just after World War II ended. The French had been having difficulty sustaining their leadership in Vietnam, so the US became indirectly involved by sending massive amounts of support and financial aid to help the French. However, in 1954 when the French were defeated and later told to withdraw under the rules of the Geneva Conference, the USA carried on their involvement. This brings up the point that, perhaps their involvement with Vietnam wasn't just to help and support an ally. Instead, a long-term interest with Vietnam was appearing.

Possibly, a contributing factor to the continuation of US involvement after the French's departure was that it would have been a disgrace to be beaten. The US moved in to take over the responsibilities of which the French had been able to fulfil. They could not have their pride stamped on and had to show the world that they were still the dominant world power. So, to feel no threat that they