AP US History in 1 Minute Daily: Intensification of the Vietnam War (Day 261/309)

Hey APUSHers, let’s chat about Intensification of the Vietnam War as part of my series- APUSH in 1 Minute Daily!

“What’s so funny, Monsieur? I’m only trying to find my way.” Library of Congress

Even after the French relinquished their claims to Vietnam, the U.S. became increasingly involved in the region as part of their broader strategy of containment.

“Our Position Hasn’t Changed At All,” Library of Congress

In 1964, the Gulf of Tonkin incident and Resolution led to the significant increase of U.S. military presence in Vietnam, marking the beginning of the Vietnam War's most intense phase.

Tet Offensive, Wikimedia Commons

Considered the turning point in the war, the Tet Offensive in 1968, launched by the Viet Cong and North Vietnamese forces, surprised U.S. and South Vietnamese troops. It highlighted the resilience and determination of the communist forces and undermined the perception of U.S. progress.

Vietnam Bombing, Cooper Thomas

In response, the United States escalated its bombing campaign into neighboring Cambodia to disrupt North Vietnamese supply routes on the Ho Chi Minh trail and conducted covert military operations in Laos in what became known as the Secret War. 

Despite U.S. efforts to contain communism, the North Vietnamese and Vietcong proved to be a formidable enemy which fueled the escalation of the Vietnam War.

Join me tomorrow as I explain the Antiwar Movement in the next APUSH in 1 Minute Daily!