What role did Cambodia play in the Vietnam war?

Answer 1

Cambodia was caught in the middle. Powerful hostile NVA forces within their country; and a powerful US force wanting to destroy those NVA forces. A neutral Cambodia wanting no part of either, but unable to stop either one.

Answer 2

Answer
The Vietcong had routes through Cambodia that were used to send essential supplies to the fighting Vietcong in South Vietnam. The United States began to bomb the countrysides of Cambodia in an effort to stop the transport of Vietcong materials from North Vietnam to South Vietnam. The bombing started in 1969 and on May 1st, 1970 President Nixon announced the U.S. backed invasion of Cambodia even though the bombings had been going on for over a year. This announcement met much criticism from the American public but the bombings continued for years after. During this time, the infamous leader Pol Pot was quietly, but rapidly gaining support in the countrysides of Cambodia. Pol Pol would promise revenge against the Americans for destroying so much and killing so many in order to gain support. Around the time the last American troops left Vietnam, Pol Pot and his forces invaded the capital city of Phnom Penh in 1975. From April 15th, 1975 to December of 1978 Pol Pot and his followers unleashed one of the most brutal genocides history has even seen. It is estimated that 1-2 million people lost their lives during this time period.

Answer 3

1. Proved that the Reds could be stopped; thus enforcing the concept of fighting them again, this time in Vietnam.

2. Taught the US not to invade North Vietnam; as Red China entered the Korean War after the US/Allies invaded North Korea.

Answer 4

One NVA Armored Regiment (tank regiment) was operating within Cambodia's borders; US covert teams observed them.

The Ho Chi Minn trail went through Cambodia; consequently, Cambodia was bombed quite a bit.