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Geneva Conference
Vietnam split into North and South at Geneva Conference following end of Korean War -
Gulf Tonkin Incident
The USS Maddox was pursued by three North Vietnamese ships, though the validity of the incident is questionable. The incident led to more direct U.S. involvement in the Vietnam War. It also resulted in Congress passing the Gulf of Tonkin Resolution, giving financial power to Johnson for the war effort. -
Arrival of U.S. Combat Troops
200,000 combat troops arrive in South Vietnam at the order of President Johnson. -
Tet Offensive
The Tet Offensive begins in conjunction with the Vietnamese New Year holiday. It marks a turning point in the war for the VC and NVA. -
My Lai Massacre
U.S. soldiers massacre over 500 women, children and other civilians in the My Lai village. -
Death of Ho Chi Minh
A heart attack kills Ho Chi Minh. He is succeeded by Le Duan. -
Paris Peace Accords
A cease-fire is officially reached through the agreements made in Paris. Peace talks had started nearly three years earlier between Kissinger and Le Duc Tho. -
War Powers Act
Congress passes the War Powers Act, meant to limit the power of the president when sending troops into combat situations. It requires Congressional approval for sending those troops after a period of 30 days with an additional 30 day withdrawal period. -
Fall of Saigon
The North Vietnamese capture the South Vietnamese capital of Saigon. Several months later in July, North and South Vietnam are formally unified as the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, a communist nation. -
Saigon Renamed
Saigon is renamed Ho Chi Minh City
