Vietnam War Policy and Decisions

The lecture examines the Clifford Task Force's recommendations on U.S. Vietnam policy in 1968. Chaired by Clark Clifford, the task force concluded that success in Vietnam was unlikely, urging no additional troops and a focus on peace negotiations. President Johnson, initially resistant, consulted the Wise Men, who echoed the task force's conclusions. Consequently, Johnson announced policy changes and his decision not to seek re-election, aiming to focus on resolving the Vietnam conflict.

What was the primary purpose of the Clifford Task Force formed in March 1968?

• To support the Tet Offensive

• To review American policy in Vietnam

• To increase troop levels in Vietnam

• To negotiate peace with North Vietnam

What event in 1968 significantly increased skepticism about the Vietnam War among American officials?

• The Gulf of Tonkin Incident

• The Tet Offensive

• The Fall of Saigon

• The My Lai Massacre

Who was appointed as the new Defense Secretary in 1968, initially seen as more hawkish than his predecessor?

• Maxwell Taylor

• Clark Clifford

• Dean Rusk

• Robert McNamara

What was one of the key recommendations made by the Clifford Task Force regarding the Vietnam War?

• Launch a new offensive in North Vietnam

• Send no additional troops and seek a negotiated peace

• Withdraw all troops immediately

• Increase troop levels significantly

Who was the CIA director involved in the Clifford Task Force?

• Dean Rusk

• Richard Helms

• Maxwell Taylor

• Henry Fowler

What was President Johnson's reaction to the Clifford Task Force's report?

• He increased troop levels in Vietnam

• He dismissed the report entirely

• He was bothered and deliberated his next steps

• He immediately agreed with all recommendations

What was the outcome of the meeting with the 'wise men' regarding Vietnam policy?

• They recommended a new military strategy

• They agreed with the Clifford Task Force's conclusions

• They suggested a complete withdrawal

• They supported increasing troop levels

What significant announcement did President Johnson make on March 31, 1968?

• He would increase troop levels in Vietnam

• He would run for re-election

• He would resign from the presidency

• He would not run for re-election

What was one of the reasons Johnson decided not to run for re-election?

• He was in poor health

• He lost public support

• He was pressured by Congress

• He wanted to focus on peace talks

What was the estimated monthly cost if Johnson agreed to send 205,000 more troops to Vietnam?

• $4 billion

• $2 billion

• $1 billion

• $3 billion