1968+5.27.10

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=1968= Why was 1968 such a turning point in Vietnam?

LEADING UP
 * no clear winner in war
 * increase in american forces in SE Asia
 * Vietcong proved to be guiding force in South Vietnam
 * US tried to "pacify" south vietnam

LBJ is determined
 * Optimistic reports
 * a light at the end of the tunnel
 * Public mostly supported war

THE TET OFFENSIVE
 * attack on US strongholds throughout Vietnam by VC
 * US took back all land lost
 * but VC won a political thingy
 * shakes the public

ELECTION YEAR
 * LBJ is being criticized
 * Congress starts to question him
 * US defense secretary says war is unwinable
 * War is broadcasted on TV
 * The public turns on Johnson
 * JOHNSON goes on TV
 * has peace talks and stops bombings of North Vietnam
 * Tells nation he will not run for president
 * MLK assassinated

RIOTS ANTIWAR
 * MLK assassination causes riots
 * havoc ensues
 * JFK's brother speaks about the assassination
 * He runs for president
 * he gives a speech in california and he is assassinated
 * Democrats need new nominee for president
 * Nixon comes out of nowhere and reinvents his campaign
 * Nixon becomes president
 * Anti war protests break out