1. Korea and the US Policy of Containment
The Forgotten “War”

2. Korea under Japanese Control
Japan ruled Korea
Post WWII:
Japan troops north of 38th parallel surrender to Soviets
Japan troops south of 38th parallel surrender to US
Korea becomes two nations

3. Democratic vs. Communist
South = Democratic
US slowly pulls troops out, leaves South on own
North = Communist
Soviets have great influence
Soviets don’t think US will defend South

4. Korean Conflict Soviets plan to take over full peninsula
June 25, North attacks South
South appeals to United Nation
Vote to help South
June 27 - US sends in troops
16 nations help Korea with troops & aid
90% of troops come from US
Led by Gen. Douglas MacArthur

5. Korea - Not a War Congress never declared war in Korea
Truman uses executive action to send troops
US not in a war, but “involved in a United Nations police action”

6. Conflict - Stage 1 North has advantage North quickly moves South
North captures Seoul
South pushed to small area

7. Conflict - Stage 2 MacArthur counterattack
Surprise landing behind enemy lines
North retreats, UN forces chase them
Very close to Yalu River - border with China

8. Conflict - Stage 3 China enters Don’t want Americans at their border
Need a buffer state
Capture Seoul - again
Stalemate ensues

9. Conflict - Stage 4 MacArthur wants to attack China with atomic weapons
Truman refuses
China/Soviet pact - if attack China, could start WWIII
Truman fires MacArthur

10. The Results Communism is contained without the use of atomic weapons
North and South Korea continue to be divided at the 38th parallel

11. The End June 23, 1951 - Soviets suggest cease fire
Divide at existing battle line
Establish demilitarized zone
July armistice finally signed