Korean War Forgotten War

World War II 38 th parallel temporary solution to dispute between United States and Soviet Union North: Soviet Union South: United States June 1950 war breaks out North Korean troops invade South Korea with Soviet tanks and airpower. Conquer South Korea in weeks

U.S. gains support of U.N. Soviets could not use veto power b/c they were not there Left b/c China was not allowed into the U.N. Police action 16 nations involved U.S. made-up 80% of force

General Douglas MacArthur Excellent military strategist Landed at Pusan Only portion of South Korea not conquered by North Korea Attached weakest point Inchon: cut-off troops and supplies lines of the North Koreans Nov Pushed North Koreans almost into China

China responds with aggression Did not want a western influenced country as a neighbor China with the help of the N. Koreans pushed U.N. forces back across the 38 th parallel Stalemate MacArthur wants to open a second front to end stalemate Truman does not widespread war in Asia 1953 Truce was signed

Results 54,000 U.S. solders killed 103,000 wounded 1 st war where white & negro solders served in the same unit Military spending increases Signed treaty with Japan