Vietnam War Timeline

  • Domino Theory Coined

    Domino Theory Coined
    The Domino Theory was a warning to future presidents that communism will spread as one country falls to it.
  • Geneva Accords

    Geneva Accords
    The Geneva Accords brought an end to the first Indochina War and marked the end of French influence in Southeast Asia.
  • Assassination of Diem

    Assassination of Diem
    The assassination of Diem made communism once again a worry and possibility in South Vietnam.
  • Gulf of Tonkin Resolution

    Gulf of Tonkin Resolution
    This authorized the president to do anything that he believed was necessary to maintain international peace and security in Southeast Asia.
  • LBJ ordered 1st troops to Vietnam

    LBJ ordered 1st troops to Vietnam
    This was an act of support to the Saigon government in its effort to defeat rising communists.
  • Tet Offensive

    Tet Offensive
    The Tet Offensive was a propaganda victory for communists who wanted the United Stands to stand down from the war.
  • Mỹ Lai Massacre

    Mỹ Lai Massacre
    The massacre further divided the United States over support of the Vietnam War.
  • Nixon's Vietnamization Policy

    Nixon's Vietnamization Policy
    Nixon build up South Vietnam's armed forces so they could act in their own offense against North Vietnam.
  • Nixon sends troops into Cambodia

    Nixon sends troops into Cambodia
    Nixon's action of sending troops into Cambodia shortened the war and saved many American lives.
  • Kent State Shooting

    Kent State Shooting
    The Kent State Shooting triggered a nationwide student strike that forced colleges to close.
  • Hard Hat Riot

    Hard Hat Riot
    The Hard Hat riot was a symbol of division in the United States. Construction workers attacked students who were protesting against the war.
  • Nixon's Christmas Bombing

    Nixon's Christmas Bombing
    Nixon's Christmas Bombing forced Vietnam to negotiate.
  • Paris Peace Accords

    Paris Peace Accords
    The Paris Peace Accords were a step towards peace in Vietnam and another step towards the end of War.
  • War Powers Act

    War Powers Act
    The War Powers Act limited the presidents powers in escalating military actions.
  • Saigon Falls

    Saigon Falls
    This was the last major event of the Vietnam War and resembled the end.