The Vietnam War lasted for 20 years, from 1954 to 1975.
Key Periods:
- First Indochina War (1946-1954): This conflict was between French colonial forces and the Viet Minh, a Vietnamese communist group led by Ho Chi Minh. It ended with the defeat of the French at the Battle of Dien Bien Phu.
- Second Indochina War (1954-1975): This war was fought between North Vietnam, supported by the Soviet Union and China, and South Vietnam, supported by the United States. The war escalated significantly with the direct involvement of the US in 1965.
Major Events:
- 1965: The United States began large-scale military operations in South Vietnam.
- 1968: The Tet Offensive, a major military campaign launched by North Vietnam, shocked the United States and led to a decline in public support for the war.
- 1973: The Paris Peace Accords were signed, leading to a ceasefire and the withdrawal of US troops.
- 1975: North Vietnam launched a final offensive, capturing Saigon and reunifying Vietnam under communist rule.
Lasting Impact:
- The Vietnam War had a profound impact on both Vietnam and the United States.
- It resulted in the deaths of millions of people and caused widespread destruction.
- The war also had a significant impact on American society, leading to protests and a questioning of US foreign policy.
