1. Nixon and the End of the Vietnam War

2. A. Nixon’s plan to end the conflict in Vietnam B. Gradually withdraw US troops and let the South Vietnamese do their own fighting C. Wants the North to accept the partition of Vietnam 1. Increases aid to Saigon 2. Increases air raids against the North 3. Secret plans to bomb Cambodia and Laos

3. A. Sent American troops to clear out North Vietnamese (VietCong) from Cambodia B. Did not have Congressional consent C. Sets off general student strike across the US 1. Kent State University – May 4, 1970 2. 4 killed, 9 wounded D. Troops withdraw in June 1970

4. A. Failed military attempts by South Vietnamese B. Low morale among US soldiers 1. Age 2. Casualties 3. Drug use

5. A. 1970-1972 Relaxation of political tensions between the nations B. Nixon and Kissinger sought stability, balance of power, controlling foreign affairs from the White House C. With Russia and China

6. A. October 1972 – cease-fire agreement between the US and North Vietnam B. January 1973 – Peace agreement signed between North Vietnam and US C. March 1973 – all US troops leave South Vietnam

7. A. Congress decided that the President’s power to commit troops to combat without their approval gave the President too much power B. Details: 1. The President can commit troops to a hostile situation, however, they must notify Congress within 48 hours. 2. Troops may not stay overseas for more than 60 days without Congressional approval. 3. Congress can demand the return of military troops.

8. A. March 9, 1975 – North Vietnamese troops (VietCong) attack South Vietnam at Ban Me Thuot B. North Vietnam unifies Vietnam in April of 1975 1. Cambodian government surrenders to the Khmer Rouge 2. The last Americans leave Saigon a.The VietCong invaded South Vietnam and captured Saigon b.As Saigon fell, the last Americans were evacuated by helicopter from the US embassy roof.