Vietnam War

Tonkin Gulf Resolution

Aug 7, 1964

After a hefty fight between North Vietnam and the U.S., the Tonkin Gulf Resolution gave a good amount of military power to President Johnson without having to declare war.

Tet Offensive

Jan 30, 1968

80,000 Vietcong troops emerged from the underground tunnels and attacked big cities in South Vietnam.

My Lai Massacre

Mar 16, 1968

In 1968, American soldiers opened fire on hundreds of women and children. General William L. Calley Jr. was charged for murder but it was overturned which made citizens mad.

Vietnamization

Apr 20, 1970

President Nixon's plan was to slowly withdraw U.S. troops from Vietnam and hand the fighting over to the Army of Republic of Vietnam. South Vietnam would end up fighting for themselves.

Kent State Massacre

May 4, 1970

Students protested that the war was expanding, not ending. The National Guard was sent but ended up killing four students and wounded many others.

Pentagon Papers

Apr 17, 1971

The Pentagon papers was a top secret overview of the history of government involvement in Vietnam. Daniel Ellsberg was the author and creator of the papers.

War Powers Act

Nov 7, 1973

This act required the president to inform congress within 48 hours of sending forces into a hostile area without declaration of war. Troops can only stay for 3 months unless congress/president declares war.