Why did the us help south Vietnam in the Vietnam war?

Answer 1

Although a multifaceted question, the simple answer is the easiest. When countries like (United Soviet Socialists Republic) USSR - now Russia, and China adopted the system of government known as Communism, other countries like North Vietnam and North Korea also adopted this system of government (willingly or otherwise). South Vietnam, on the other hand was an ally of the United States, partly because of Military interests (military bases) located in Vietnam. Communism had many conflicts with the American form of government (known as democracy). Overall, there was an "initiative" (conquest would be such a strong word here) to try and unify all of the Asian continent to adopt Communism as the leading form of government in all countries (including South Vietnam and South Korea). In the 1950's, the United States and other Allies defeated Japan on the East Asian front, and Germany plus Italy on the West European Front (continental perspective here). Upon the surrender of Japan at the conclusion of World War II, the United States needed to establish a military presence in that geographical region to enforce the terms of unconditional surrender. In so much, military bases were established on mainland Asia (on part of the US) in Korea and Vietnam. It is thought that the USSR's government felt threatened by the US presence so close to their international borders. In the process of advocating and spreading Communism and its interests, North Korea and later North Vietnam invaded their southern counterparts to A) take control of the democratic government, and B) drive out the American presence (military bases and the like).

Answer 2

Mainly, it has to do with the policy of containment set up by the Truman Doctrine. If Vietnam fell to communism then so would all of Southeast Asia--Also, the "domino theory." Additionally, L. B. Johnson didn't want to be remembered as the president who let Vietnam fall to communism. It was all part of the power struggle between the super powers and defending democracy, as well as being tough on communism. It's not so much that US wanted to help South Vietnam (we weren't doing it for the Vietnamese people at all), but basically the US would support any alternative to communism (apart other extremes like facism).

Answer 3

They feared a communist takeover of South Vietnam (which eventually occurred), part of the Domino Effect belief.

Answer 4

Would have become communist , innocent people killed could defend theselves