The conflict in Vietnam

In which year had French forces finally left Vietnam?

• 1950

• 1952

• 1954

• 1956

Answer explanation

Remember: the French had reoccupied Vietnam after the defeat of Japan in World War Two, but then fought a lengthy and unsuccessful campaign against the Vietnamese independence movement.

What was the name of the Vietnamese independence movement that had fought against the French?

Answer explanation

The Viet Minh had fought to free Vietnam from Japan, but then fought to prevent the French from reoccupying their country completely. The Viet Minh was led by Ho Chi Minh.

Where was the final defeat of French forces, which led to them withdrawing their troops in 1954?

• Saigon

• Dien Bien Phu

• Hanoi

• Tonkin

What sort of intervention and support had the USA given to the French up to this point?

• Money and military materials

• Intelligence and military training

• US soldiers and money

The President of the USA when the French left Vietnam was President ---------------

(a)  

Answer explanation

Eisenhower had become President in 1953, and would go on to serve until 1961 when John F. Kennedy was inaugurated.

What names were given to the two Vietnamese states after 1945?

• The Republic of Vietnam

• The People's Kingdom of Vietnam

• The Democratic Republic of Vietnam

• The People's Democratic Republic of Vietnam

Answer explanation

The Republic of Vietnam was the southern state, whereas the Democratic Republic of Vietnam was the northern one.

Which two countries refused to sign the treaty made at Geneva agreeing to free elections in Vietnam?

• The USA

• China

• The USSR

• South Vietnam (the Republic of Vietnam)

• France

Who became the leader of South Vietnam (the Republic of Vietnam) in 1955?

• Ho Chi Minh

• Bo Dai

• Ngo Dinh Diem

• General Giap

Explain one reason why Diem's regime was unpopular with many of the Vietnamese people.

Answer explanation

Diem was unpopular for many reasons. He was Catholic and was intolerant towards the majority Buddhist faith. His regime was corrupt and he appointed friends and associates to top positions in government regardless of their suitability, he lived a lavish lifestyle while many ordinary Vietnamese people were poor, people disliked his links with the USA, and felt he had not been democratically elected.

Who took over from JFK as US President, in 1963?

• Harry Truman

• Lyndon B. Johnson

• Richard Nixon

• Gerald Ford