-
Ho Chi Min
A Vietnamese communist drew on that history to stir up nationalist feelings. He helped found a group to oppose foreign occupation. -
Vietnamese Independence
The same day that Japan formally surrendered to the Allies, Vietnam declared its independence. -
The War Begins
The decisive battle of the war began when the Viet Minh launched a surprise attack on a large French military base at Dien Bien Phu. -
The French and Viet Minh
In July 1954 the French and Viet Minh signed the Geneva Accords. Under this agreement the fighting stopped and Vietnam was split temporarily along the 17th parallel. -
The War Ends
The Viet Minh finally over ran the French base, ending the Battle of Dien Bien Phu.