1. The Korean War America’s Forgotten War

2. Origins: Civil War in China Recall: During the age of imperialism, China was divided under “Spheres of Influence.” Recall: Japan invaded China (Manchuria) during 1930s, WWII. Reaction? – Nationalism sweeps over China! Some call for powerful democracy. Others see Communism as the solution to building a strong country. –Two sides fought in a long Civil War! Outcome: Communists win in 1949! CHINA BECOMES THE WORLD’S SECOND COMMUNIST COUNTRY in 1949!

3. Dividing Korea Recall: During WWII, Japan had also expanded into Korea. Reaction: Most Koreans became nationalistic. –Outcome: Plans for Korean independence were never worked out before the fall of Japan. Temporary Solution? –Korea divided at 38 th Parallel! »Soviets occupy North »USA occupies South »Occupying forces withdraw in 1949…

4. The Conflict Begins… 1950  North Korea attacks South Korea. –Why does the US intervene? 1.Containment Review - What is this again? 2.Domino Theory First Russia, now China, then… ? –“Proxy War” USA and USSR never in direct conflict USA supports any government that is against one supported by the USSR.

5. USA Becomes Involved UN Involvement –Truman seeks UN support. USSR protests! –Officially deemed a “UN Peace-keeping Action,” though 80% of military presence is from USA.

6. Waging the War: MacArthur’s Strategy Douglas MacArthur –War hero from WWI, WWII, strong anti-communist. –Headed post-war occupation in Japan, South Korea War Strategy –North Korea had advanced quickly Supply lines thin? –Land US forces at Inchon. Forces will cut off supply lines from North Korea. Also advance from South (Pusan) –Strategy works! Invaders flee across 38 th parallel.

7. The War, Cont’d Troops Keep Advancing –US and South Korea begin talks of creating a pro- western democratic gov’t. Chinese Involvement –Chinese warn US not to advance past Korean border. –MacArthur does anyway. “Home By Christmas” –China backs North Korea, pushes South Korean and US forces back to 38 th parallel.

8. Truman vs. MacArthur Invade China? –MacArthur wants to back the Chinese Nationalists Army (Taiwan) in an “invasion” of China. Truman opposes, fears widespread war in Asia. MacArthur sends letter to House Minority leader attacking Truman’s policies, March 1951. –Truman fires MacArthur for insubordination!

9. End and Legacy of the War Continuing Stalemate –Little movement persisted from either side for two years. –1953, Armistice signed. Still fighting? Legacy –Containment US began to see that wars in the atomic age would be limited victories. –Fear of Russian nukes! US Role in the World –US began to see itself as world policeman (permanent mobilization of troops). Future Policies in Asia –US signs treaty with Japan –Vietnam?

10. Korean War Recap