Vietnam War and the Domino Theory

The video discusses the domino theory, introduced by President Eisenhower in 1954, which suggested that if Vietnam fell to communism, the rest of Southeast Asia would follow. To prevent this, the Eisenhower administration supported Ngo Dinh Diem as the leader of South Vietnam, despite his flaws. Diem faced significant challenges, including religious tensions and corruption. His authoritarian rule, supported by the U.S., led to widespread oppression and alienation of the South Vietnamese people, ultimately increasing support for the Viet Minh.

What was the main idea behind the Domino Theory as proposed by President Eisenhower?

• A theory that communism would collapse on its own.

• A belief that if one country fell to communism, others would follow.

• A plan to economically support Southeast Asian countries.

• A strategy to build a series of military bases in Asia.

Who did the Eisenhower administration support as the leader of South Vietnam?

• Le Duan

• Vo Nguyen Giap

• Ngo Dinh Diem

• Ho Chi Minh

What was the Eisenhower administration's primary goal in supporting South Vietnam?

• To establish a communist government

• To promote economic development

• To prevent the spread of communism in Southeast Asia

• To create a new military alliance

How did the Eisenhower administration view Ngo Dinh Diem despite his flaws?

• As a communist sympathizer

• As the best available option

• As a military strategist

• As a temporary leader

What was one of the major challenges faced by Diem's government?

• Ruling a predominantly Buddhist nation as a Catholic

• Overwhelming support from the Viet Minh

• Lack of support from the United States

• Economic prosperity leading to complacency

What was one of the criticisms of Ngo Dinh Diem's leadership?

• He was too focused on economic reforms.

• He was too democratic.

• He was overly sympathetic to communists.

• He was aloof and corrupt.

How did Diem's governance style affect his relationship with the South Vietnamese population?

• He was isolated and unsympathetic to the people's needs.

• He was admired for his military strategies.

• He was popular for his democratic reforms.

• He was seen as a unifying leader.

What was the result of Diem's refusal to participate in the national elections?

• A campaign to eliminate his enemies

• Increased support from the United States

• A peaceful resolution with the Viet Minh

• A successful democratic election

What was the impact of Diem's brutal campaigns on the South Vietnamese population?

• A decrease in organized crime

• A shift in support towards the Viet Minh

• Strengthened military alliances

• Increased support for Diem's government

What was a consequence of the brutality of Diem's regime?

• Growing support for the Viet Minh

• Strengthened ties with the United States

• Increased foreign investment

• A peaceful resolution with North Vietnam