Hawks supported President Lyndon B. Johnson and his war policy primarily due to their belief in the necessity of a strong military response to the spread of communism, particularly in Southeast Asia. They viewed the Vietnam War as essential for containing communism and protecting U.S. interests and allies. Additionally, they believed that a decisive victory in Vietnam would bolster U.S. credibility on the global stage. This stance aligned with the broader Cold War mentality that prioritized military engagement as a means to deter communist expansion.
Johnson wanted their support for his Vietnam War Policy.
Lyndon Johnson
President Lyndon B. Johnson's Vice President was Hubert Humphrey.
President Johnson had not delivered the victory he had repeatedly promised.
containment
Lyndon Baines Johnson (LBJ)
containment
The Great Society
Hawks believed Vietnam was a crucial front in the Cold War
Lyndon Johnson
He signed the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and he signed the Voting Rights Act in 1965
Americans began to lose faith in President Lyndon B. Johnson and his Vietnam policy due to escalating casualties and the perception of an unwinnable war. The Tet Offensive in 1968, which contradicted official assertions of progress, shocked the public and heightened skepticism about government transparency. Additionally, widespread protests and media coverage of the war's brutality fueled disillusionment and distrust in Johnson's leadership. This growing dissent culminated in a significant decline in Johnson's approval ratings and support for his policies.