-
1945
Following the surrender of Japan to Allied forces, Ho Chi Minh and his People's Congress create the National Liberation Committee of Vietnam to form a provisional government. Japan transfers all power to Ho's Vietminh. -
1946
Lt. Col. A. Peter Dewey, head of American OSS mission, was killed by Vietminh troops while driving a jeep to the airport. Reports later indicated that his death was due to a case of mistaken identity -- he had been mistaken for a Frenchman. -
1947
French General Etienne Valluy attempts, and fails, to wipe out the Vietminh in one stroke. -
1949
Bao Dai and President Vincent Auriol of France sign the Elysee Agreement. As part of the agreement the French pledge to assist in the building of a national anti-Communist army. -
1950
The United States sends $15 million dollars in military aid to the French for the war in Indochina. Included in the aid package is a military mission and military advisors. -
1953
France Grants Laos Full Independence -
1954
A force of 40,000 heavily armed Vietminh lay seige to the French garrison at Dienbienphu. -
1955
China and Soviet Union Pledge Additional Financial Support to Hanoi -
1956
The US Military Assistance Advisor Group (MAAG) assumes responsibility, from French, for training South Vietnamese forces -
1957
Thirteen Americans working for MAAG and US Information Service are wounded in terrorist bombings in Saigon.
