Why did the United States become involved in Vietnam in the 1960's and 1970's?

The first 200 words of this essay...

Vietnam War.

Coursework Question 1:

Why did the United States become involved in Vietnam in the 1960's and 1970's?

There are many reasons for American intervention in Vietnam whether it is political causes, economic causes or military causes. The Americans want to secure capitalism all over the world and get rid of communism. The French used to run Vietnam in a capitalist manner. After the Second World War France attempted to secure and control Vietnam once more. France refused to recognize the democratic republic of Vietnam that had been declared by Ho Chi Minh and fighting soon broke out against the Vietminh and the French troops. The Vietminh had difficulties coping with the French fighting power and technology. Their situation improved in 1949 after Mao Zedong's communist victory over Chaing Kai-shek in China. The Vietminh now had a safer place were they could take their wounded and train their soldiers. General Giap was forced to organize a massive attack on the French at Dien Bien Phu. While plans were being organized Giap brought up members of the Vietminh from all over Vietnam. By the time the battle was ready to start Giap had over 70,000 soldiers surrounding