Vietnam

Describe Kennedy’s actions in relation to Vietnam.

4 Level 1 One mark for each relevant point; additional mark for supporting detail 1–4 e.g. ‘When he
became President he said he would support the government of South Vietnam against the
communist threat.’ ‘Kennedy supported the Domino Theory.’ ‘During his presidency ‘Strategic
Hamlet’ was introduced.’ ‘He agreed to finance an increase in the size of the South Vietnam army.’
‘In 1961, he started to increase the number of US advisers in South Vietnam.’ ‘By 1962, there were
11 000 military advisers in South Vietnam.’ ‘Kennedy tried to persuade President Diem to introduce
reforms.’ ‘Kennedy was planning to withdraw US advisers by the end of 1963.’

Why did Johnson escalate the war in Vietnam?

6 Level 4 Explains TWO reasons 6 Level 3 Explains ONE reason 4–5 (Four marks for one explanation,
five marks for full explanation) e.g. ‘Johnson did this to try and stop the increasing number of attacks
by the North and the Vietcong. In August 1964, an American ship had been attacked by North
Vietnamese torpedo boats in the Gulf of Tonkin. The ship managed to defend, itself but this incident
led to Johnson deciding he had to escalate American activity. He ordered strikes against North
Vietnam and got Congress to pass the Gulf of Tonkin Resolution that let him take any further action
needed to stop the Communists.’ Level 2 Identifies AND / OR describes reasons 2–3 (One mark for
each identification/description) e.g. ‘Johnson was determined to stop the Communists from making
advances in South East Asia.’ ‘The Diem coup led to an increase in raids by the Vietcong.’ ‘This was
because of the Tonkin incident when American torpedo boats were attacked by the North.’
‘President Johnson wanted to boost morale in Saigon.’ ‘President Johnson wanted to force Hanoi
into ending its support of the communist insurgency in the South.’ ‘President Johnson started huge
bombing raids because American casualties were rising.’ ‘It was in response to successful attacks on
US bases where many American soldiers were killed.’ ‘President Johnson’s bombing campaign failed
so he had to send many more troops.’ Level 1 General answer lacking specific contextual knowledge
1 e.g. ‘President Johnson thought he had to do this because things were not going very well.’

‘When Nixon became President in 1969 he needed to seek a peace settlement with North Vietnam.’
How far do you agree with this statement? Explain your answer.

10 Level 5 Explains with evaluation of ‘how far’ 10 As Level 4 plus evaluation. Level 4 Explanation of
both sides 7–9 A L4 answer will have a minimum of three explanations (2 on one side; 1 on the
other.) This will be worth a mark of 7. Fuller explanation of one issue to be given two marks. An
answer which only has one explanation on one side of the argument cannot be awarded more than
8. Level 3 One sided explanation OR one explanation of both sides 5 to 6 marks 4–6 More detailed
explanation of one issue to be given two marks. e.g. ‘Nixon had no choice. By the time he became
president the war was unpopular in America. This was because of events like the My Lai massacre
and the fact that incidents like this were being reported on the television in the USA. Once
Americans saw women and children being driven from their homes and suffering from horrible
injuries, they began to turn against the war. Hundreds of thousands were being killed, including
many Americans. The fact that the Communists were able to launch the Tet Offensive in 1968
showed Americans that their politicians had been lying and that victory was not near. When he
became president, Nixon had to get the USA out of Vietnam.’ OR e.g. ‘I think Nixon did have a
choice. The Tet Offensive had been pushed back and had shown the Communists could be defeated.
Nixon introduced the policy of ‘Vietnamisation’ and if this had been fully supported, including by
some American troops, it could have worked. For a time it did work well, and by 1971 it had
achieved some rollback of Communist gains inside South Vietnam. However, the Americans
promised the South Vietnamese more support. However, when the war restarted in 1974 the
promised troops were not sent. The South Vietnamese were left by themselves. Nixon could have
supported them, showing that he did have a choice.’ Level 2 Identifies AND/OR describes 2–3 One
mark for each point. e.g. ‘The reporting of the horror of what was going on made the war unpopular
in the USA.’ ‘All over America, there were protests against the war.’ ‘Thousands of US soldiers were
dying for what appeared to be nothing.’ ‘The Tet Offensive showed the Communists were not near
defeat.’ ‘The failure of the Tet Offensive showed that the Communists could be defeated.’ ‘The
policy of ‘Vietnamisation’ could have worked if supported by more people.’ Level 1 General answer
lacking specific contextual knowledge e.g. ‘I do not think Nixon had any choice because the
Americans were in trouble.’

What was ‘Operation Rolling Thunder’?

4 Level 1 One mark for each relevant point; additional mark for supporting detail 1–4 e.g. ‘It was the
code name for the US bombing campaign against North Vietnam.’ ‘It took place between March
1965 and November 1968.’ ‘It was the first sustained US assault on the North.’ ‘The US dropped over
800 000 tons of bombs on North Vietnam.’ ‘It was designed to destroy the morale of North Vietnam
(and boost that of the South).’ ‘It was intended to destroy transport systems, industrial bases and air
defences of the North.

Why were the Vietcong able to withstand attacks by US forces?

6 Level 4 Explains TWO reasons 6 Level 3 Explains ONE reason 4–5 Four marks for one explanation,
five marks for full explanation. e.g. ‘The Vietcong were able to withstand attack because they relied
on guerrilla tactics which were very effective in the jungle. They involved hiding in the jungle and
making surprise attacks, setting booby-traps or planting explosives. Due to this method the US
soldiers never saw or knew who the enemy was.’ OR e.g. ‘The Vietcong were able to withstand
American attacks because they had an extensive network of underground tunnels and bunkers, so
they could keep well hidden from American soldiers. The tunnels included storage, hospitals and
kitchens to prepare food. That meant they were able to hide for a long time and avoid detection.’
Level 2 Identifies AND/OR describes reasons 2–3 One mark for each identification/description. e.g.
‘The USA did not develop an effective response to the guerrilla tactics used by the Vietcong.’ ‘The
Vietcong bases were well hidden.’ ‘The Vietcong used the Ho Chi Minh Trail.’ ‘The Vietcong won the
support of the local people.’ ‘The Vietcong had support from China and the Soviet Union.’ Level 1
General answer lacking specific contextual knowledge 1 e.g. ‘The Vietcong were too strong.’

‘The main reason why the US public turned against the Vietnam War was television coverage.’ How
far do you agree with this statement? Explain your answer.

10 Level 5 Explains with evaluation of ‘how far’ 10 As Level 4 plus evaluation. Level 4 Explanation of
both sides 7–9 A L4 answer will have a minimum of three explanations (2 on one side; 1 on the
other). This will be worth a mark of 7. Fuller explanation of one issue to be given two marks. An
answer which only has one explanation on one side of the argument cannot be awarded more than
8. Level 3 One-sided explanation OR one explanation of both sides 5 to 6 marks 4–6 More detailed
explanation of one issue to be given two marks. e.g. ‘Television coverage had a significant impact.
This was the first televised war and American people were horrified at the barbaric nature of
American attacks, an example being My Lai. Coverage showed children being burned by napalm and
people in villages massacred. American people were sickened by these atrocities and began to
protest against the war.’ OR e.g. ‘American opinion began to turn against the war because of the
huge cost. There were nearly 500 000 troops in Vietnam and America was spending between $20
and $30 billion a year, yet the Vietcong were not defeated. In fact, they were still able to launch
surprise attacks like the Tet Offensive. In 1967, “Life Magazine” calculated it cost $400 000 for each
Vietcong guerrilla killed. This huge spending meant cutbacks in spending on social reform and this
encouraged people to turn against the war.’ Level 2 Identifies AND/OR describes 2–3 One mark for
each point. e.g. ‘America was not winning.’ ‘The war was extremely costly.’ ‘A lot of people were
killed.’ ‘The impact of using weapons like napalm was seen on television.’ ‘The My Lai massacre
turned opinion against the war.’ ‘Many soldiers came home injured and addicted to drugs.’ ‘Social
policy in the US was neglected to pay for the war.’ Level 1 General answer lacking specific contextual
knowledge 1 e.g. ‘The Americans became more aware of what was going on.’

Why were developments in Vietnam in the 1950s important to the USA?

6 Level 4 Explains TWO reasons 6 Level 3 Explains ONE reason 4–5 (One mark for each
identification/description) e.g. ‘Developments in Vietnam mattered to the USA because of the
domino theory. This was that if one country fell to communism then the neighbouring country would
be next. This applied to Vietnam because after Vietnam was split North Vietnam became communist
and the Americans were worried that South Vietnam and Cambodia would be next. In fact the whole
of South East Asia might become communist.’ Level 2 Identifies AND / OR describes reasons 2–3
(One mark for each identification/description) e.g. ‘The French were defeated and left.’ ‘Ho Chi Minh
defeated the French at Dien Bien Phu.’ ‘Vietnam was divided into two countries with the North
becoming communist.’ ‘The communist Vietcong worked to overthrow Diem in the South.’ ‘The
domino theory meant the USA could not let Diem’s regime fall.’ ‘The Vietcong and North Vietnam
were being helped by China and the Soviet Union.’ ‘In 1959 North Vietnam increased its military
assistance to the Vietcong.’ Level 1 General answer lacking specific contextual knowledge 1 e.g.
‘These developments in Vietnam were important because the Americans did not want regimes to
develop that were against them.’

Why was America’s policy of containment a failure in Vietnam? 6

Level 4 Explains TWO reasons 6 Level 3 Explains ONE reason 4–5 (Four marks for one explanation,
five marks for full explanation) e.g. ‘The USA intervened in South Vietnam because they felt that, if
the whole of Vietnam fell to the Communists, it would only be a short time before nearby states,
such as Laos, Cambodia and Thailand, fell to them. The policy of containment was a failure because
South Vietnam was overrun by the Communists with Laos and Cambodia also falling to them.’ Level
2 Identifies AND/OR describes reasons 2–3 (One mark for each identification/description) e.g. ‘The
whole of Vietnam became Communist.’ ‘It led to Laos and Cambodia becoming Communist.’ ‘The
Vietcong used guerrilla tactics.’ ‘The Vietcong had a system of tunnels and underground passages.’
‘US troops became unpopular with peasants who gave their support to the Vietcong.’ ‘Bombing did
not stop supplies from North Vietnam.’ ‘Support was lost at home because of shocking TV pictures.’
‘The brutal massacre at My Lai turned public opinion.’ Level 1 General answer lacking specific
contextual knowledge 1 e.g. ‘It was a failure because Communism spread.’

What happened to Vietnam immediately following the Geneva Peace Accords of 1954? 4

Level 1 One mark for each relevant point; additional mark for supporting detail 1–4 e.g. ‘Vietnam
was temporarily partitioned into two parts, the north and the south.’ ‘Internationally supervised free
elections were to be held in 1956.’ ‘The proposed elections never took place.’ ‘The Vietminh became
the government of North Vietnam.’ ‘The anti-communist Vietnamese ‘regrouped’ in the south.’ ‘The
south was under the leadership of Bao Dai, a former emperor of Vietnam.’ ‘Eisenhower suggested
the Domino Theory in 1954 and was concerned that the whole of Vietnam would become
communist.’ ‘When France left Vietnam in 1955, the USA saw Vietnam as a key battleground in the
fight against communism.’ ‘In 1955 Ngo Dinh Diem toppled Bao Dai.’ ‘Diem set up the Republic of
South Vietnam.’ ‘Soon after the peace conference, the Vietcong started fighting the South’s forces.’
‘The Vietcong were communist guerrillas based in South Vietnam and supported by the communists
in the north.’

‘America failed to contain Communism.’ How far do you agree with this statement? Explain your
answer. 10

Level 5 Explains with evaluation of ‘how far’ 10 As Level 4 plus evaluation. Level 4 Explanation of
both sides 7–9 A L4 answer will have a minimum of three explanations (2 on one side; 1 on the
other). This will be worth a mark of 7. Fuller explanation of one issue to be given two marks. An
answer which only has one explanation on one side of the argument cannot be awarded more than
8. Level 3 One-sided explanation OR one explanation of both sides 5–6 marks 4–6 More detailed
explanation of one issue to be given two marks. e.g. ‘The action of the USA, through the UN,
successfully stopped the spread of communism into South Korea by resisting the attempts of North
Korea to occupy the whole country. This saved Formosa and Japan from the communist threat.’ OR
e.g. ‘Eisenhower believed that if South Vietnam became communist then Laos, Cambodia, Burma,
India, Thailand and Pakistan would quickly follow. The US actions failed to contain communism in
North Vietnam as, within two years of leaving the war, South Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia became
communist.’ Level 2 Identifies AND/OR describes 2–3 (One mark for each point) e.g. ‘South Korea
was saved from the spread of communism.’ ‘In Cuba, communism was contained within the island
for many years.’ ‘South Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia fell to communism.’ ‘Greece was saved from
falling to communism.’ Level 1 General answer lacking specific contextual knowledge 1 e.g. ‘The
success rate of US containment was mixed.’

What was Eisenhower’s policy towards Vietnam? 4

Level 1 One mark for each relevant point; additional mark for supporting detail e.g. ‘Eisenhower saw
Vietnam as a key battleground in the fight against communism.’ ‘Eisenhower saw Vietnam as a
crucial part of his domino theory.’ ‘If Vietnam became totally communist, other nearby states would
become communist. He thought Laos, Cambodia, Burma, India, Thailand and Pakistan would quickly
follow.’ ‘He backed the anti-communist government in South Vietnam.’ ‘He thought he had to act,
otherwise the whole of Vietnam would become communist.’ ‘Eisenhower had sent American air
force pilots to support the French military operations.’ ‘After the French left, Eisenhower offered
military and economic aid to the South.’ ‘He increased the number of military advisers to 900.’ ‘He
maintained a naval presence in the region.’

What did the Geneva Agreements of 1954 propose for Vietnam?

Level 1 One mark for each relevant point; additional mark for supporting detail [1–4] e.g. ‘There
should be a ceasefire.’ ‘There should be an exchange of prisoners.’ ‘A withdrawal of all foreign
forces.’ ‘Vietnam to gain independence from France.’ ‘Vietnam was to be temporarily divided into
North and South Vietnam.’ ‘The boundary was the 17th Parallel.’ ‘Ho Chi Minh’s government was
recognised in the North.’ ‘Ngo Diem’s government was recognised in the South.’ ‘Elections were to
take place for a united Vietnam within two years.’
Why did the USA become involved in the conflict in Vietnam?

Level 4 Explains TWO reasons [6] Level 3 Explains ONE reason [4–5] (One mark for an explanation,
additional mark for full explanation) e.g. ‘Eisenhower and Dulles were convinced that China and the
USSR were planning to spread communism throughout Asia. The idea was referred to as the Domino
Theory. If Vietnam fell to communism then Laos, Cambodia, Burma, Thailand and even India might
also fall, just like a row of dominoes. The Americans were determined to resist the spread of
communism in Vietnam which they saw as the first domino in the row.’ Level 2 Identifies AND/OR
describes reasons [2–3] (One mark for each identification/description) e.g. ‘The USA saw Vietnam as
a key battleground in the fight against communism.’ ‘The French had given up and pulled out of
Vietnam.’ ‘The USA did not want the elections to go ahead to unite Vietnam because it thought the
communists would win.’ ‘It was part of the Domino Theory.’ ‘With the fall of China and Korea to
communism, the USA thought Vietnam was next.’ ‘It was part of the policy of Containment, which
meant stopping the advance of communism.’ ‘Presidential candidates always talked tough about
stopping the spread of communism.’ ‘There are some who thought the military and big business
wanted a war!’ Level 1 General answer lacking specific contextual knowledge [1] e.g. ‘The USA
thought it had the weaponry to win the war.’

What was the Tet Offensive?

Level 0: No evidence submitted or response does not address the question [0] Level 1: General
answer lacking specific contextual knowledge e.g. ‘It was an event in the Vietnam War.’ [1] Level 2:
Describes the Tet Offensive (One mark for each relevant point; additional mark for supporting
detail.) e.g. ‘Communist troops attacked major South Vietnamese towns.’ ‘The Offensive attacked
U.S. military bases.’ ‘It took place in 1968.’ ‘It was when a Vietcong commando unit tried to capture
the U.S. embassy in Saigon.’ ‘Large numbers of U.S. forces were tied down for two days trying to
protect the embassy.’ ‘The Offensive was a disaster for the Vietcong, losing over 10000 men.’ ‘It was
a turning point in the war as Americans at home questioned whether the U.S.A was winning the
war.’ ‘It led to the start of negotiations for peace with the Communists.’

Why were the methods used by the Americans to try to defeat the Vietcong unsuccessful?

Level 0: No evidence submitted or response does not address the question [0] Level 1: General
answer lacking specific contextual knowledge e.g. ‘The Americans used unsuitable methods.’ [1]
Level 2: Identifies AND / OR describes reasons (One mark for each point) e.g. ‘Bombing did not break
up Vietcong supply lines.’ ‘Bombing the enemy only slowed them down.’ ‘Bombing could not defeat
a guerrilla army.’ ‘Search and Destroy tactics were often based on inadequate information.’ ‘Search
and Destroy tactics made U.S. troops unpopular with the peasants.’ ‘U.S. troops did not know who
were members of the Vietcong.’ [2–3] Level 3: Explains reasons (One mark for an explanation,
additional mark for full explanation.) e.g. ‘Although bombing through Operation Rolling Thunder did
damage North Vietnam’s war effort, it did not defeat the Communists and the Vietcong were able to
maintain their supply lines.’ ‘The use of chemical weapons, such as napalm and Agent Orange, did
much damage to the forests and individuals but it made the U.S. unpopular amongst the peasant
villagers and farmers.’ ‘Search and Destroy tactics did kill many Vietcong soldiers, but inexperienced
troops often walked into traps. Innocent villages were mistaken for Vietcong strongholds and,
therefore, many innocent civilians were killed. This made the U.S. troops unpopular with the
peasants and pushed the people towards supporting the Vietcong.’
‘American public opinion was more important than Vietcong guerrilla tactics in bringing about the
U.S. withdrawal from Vietnam.’ How far do you agree with this statement? Explain your answer.

Level 0: No evidence submitted or response does not address the question [0] Level 1: General
answer lacking specific contextual knowledge e.g. ‘Public opinion influenced politicians to bring the
troops home.’ [1] Level 2: Identifies AND / OR describes reasons (One mark for each point) e.g. ‘The
public was concerned about the high level of casualties.’ ‘The public thought too much money was
being spent.’ ‘The public was upset by U.S. atrocities against Vietnamese people.’ ‘The Tet Offensive
turned public opinion.’ ‘The media played a part in influencing public opinion.’ ‘The U.S. troops were
not used to guerrilla tactics.’ ‘The U.S. had no effective weapon against guerrilla warfare.’ [2] Level 3:
Explanation of public opinion OR guerrilla tactics e.g. explains the relevant content to answer the
question e.g. ‘Public opinion increasingly turned against the war due to atrocities committed against
the Vietnamese people. Americans were horrified by events in the village of My Lai, where 300
villagers, mainly women and children, were gunned down by U.S. troops.’ OR e.g. ‘The Americans
could not develop an effective response to the Vietcong’s guerrilla tactics. The aim of the tactics was
to wear down the enemy soldiers and destroy their morale. It was very effective as the U.S. soldiers
lived in constant fear of booby traps and ambushes. If an effective response could not be found,
then the U.S.A. had little hope of victory.’ [3–5] Level 4: Explanation of public opinion AND guerrilla
tactics Both sides of level 3

What part did the Ho Chi Minh Trail play in the Vietnam War?

Level 0 No evidence submitted or response does not address the question [0] Level 1 General
answer lacking specific contextual knowledge [1] e.g. ‘It did not help the Americans.’ Level 2
Describes part played [2–5] (One mark for each relevant point; additional mark for supporting
detail.) e.g. ‘The North Vietnamese used the Ho Chi Minh Trail to supply the Vietcong in South
Vietnam.’ ‘It was used to send guerrillas, weapons, equipment and food to the Vietcong.’ ‘The supply
lines of the Trail were vital to the Vietcong.’ ‘The Trail had dummy paths and depots to confuse the
American planes.’ ‘The Trail ensured the Vietcong had replacements quickly when vehicles and other
equipment were destroyed.’

Why was the Tet Offensive important?

Level 0 No evidence submitted or response does not address the question [0] Level 1 General
answer lacking specific contextual knowledge [1] e.g. ‘Communist troops attacked.’ Level 2 Identifies
AND/OR describes reasons [2–3] (One mark for each point.) e.g. ‘Communist troops attacked major
South Vietnamese towns and American bases.’ ‘There was an attack on the American embassy in
Saigon.’ ‘It changed American public opinion about the war.’ ‘It shattered the official view that
America was actually winning the war.’ ‘It raised questions about the amount of money being spent
on the war in Vietnam.’ Level 3 Explains reasons [4–7] (One mark for an explanation, additional mark
for full explanation.) e.g. ‘The Tet Offensive was important because it proved to be a turning point in
the war. There were nearly 500,000 American troops in Vietnam, with the war costing $20 billion
annually. American citizens could not then understand how such a major offensive could have been
launched, taking the American forces completely by surprise .They no longer believed victory for
America was close.’

‘The US withdrew from Vietnam because of public opinion in America.’ How far do you agree with
this statement? Explain your answer.

Level 0 No evidence submitted or response does not address the question [0] Level 1 General
answer lacking specific contextual knowledge [1] e.g. ‘Public opinion was important.’ Level 2
Identifies AND/OR describes public opinion/other reasons [2] (One mark for each point.) e.g. ‘The
public was concerned about the high level of casualties.’ ‘The public thought too much money was
being spent.’ ‘The public were upset by US atrocities against the Vietnamese people.’ ‘The Tet
Offensive contributed.’ ‘The media played a part.’ ‘The Americans could not develop an effective
response to the Vietcong’s guerrilla tactics.’ Level 3 Explanation of public opinion OR other reasons
[3–5] e.g. ‘Public opinion increasingly turned against the war due to the atrocities committed against
the Vietnamese people. Americans were horrified by events in the village of My Lai, where 300
villagers, mainly women and children, were gunned down by US troops.’ OR e.g. ‘The Americans
could not develop an effective response to the Vietcong’s guerrilla tactics. The aim of guerrilla tactics
was to wear down the enemy soldiers and destroy their morale. It was extremely effective, as the US
soldiers lived in constant fear of booby traps and ambushes. If an effective response could not be
found then the USA had little hope of victory.’ Level 4 Explanation of public opinion AND other
reasons [5–7] Both sides of Level 3. Level 5 Explains with evaluation of ‘how far’

Describe the tactics used by the USA in Vietnam.

Level 0 No evidence submitted or response does not address the question [0] Level 1 General
answer lacking specific contextual knowledge [1] e.g. ‘They bombed Vietnam’ Level 2 Describes
tactics [2–5] (One mark for each relevant point; additional mark for supporting detail.) e.g. ‘The USA
used saturation or blanket bombing.’ ‘They used a tactic called ‘search and destroy’. Helicopters
carried small numbers of troops for surprise attacks on Vietcong controlled villages. Every home in
the village was searched and if any sign of a Vietcong presence was found, then the village was
completely destroyed.’ ‘Chemical weapons such as Agent Orange and Napalm were used.’ ‘Agent
Orange was used to destroy the jungle where the Vietcong hid.’ ‘Napalm also destroyed jungles
where guerrillas might hide. It could burn skin through to the bone.’

(b) Why did the USA find it impossible to defeat the Vietcong?

Level 0 No evidence submitted or response does not address the question [0] Level 1 General
answer lacking specific contextual knowledge [1] e.g. ‘The Vietcong were too strong.’ Level 2
Identifies AND/OR describes reasons [2–3] (One mark for each point.) e.g. ‘The USA did not develop
an effective response to the guerrilla tactics used by the Vietcong.’ ‘The Vietcong bases were well
hidden.’ ‘The Vietcong used the Ho Chi Minh Trail.’ ‘The Vietcong won the support of the local
people.’ ‘The Vietcong had support from China and the Soviet Union.’ Level 3 Explains reasons [4–7]
(One mark for an explanation, additional mark for full explanation.) e.g. ‘The Vietcong avoided direct
face to face combat with the Americans; instead they used guerrilla tactics. They ambushed
American patrols and set booby traps and bombs on known routes of American patrols. The guerrilla
tactics made it very difficult for the Americans to even recognise their enemy, let alone defeat them.
This destroyed the morale of the American soldiers.’

The My Lai massacre was the main reason for the USA’s withdrawal from Vietnam.’ How far do you
agree with this statement? Explain your answer.

Level 0 No evidence submitted or response does not address the question [0] Level 1 General
answer lacking specific contextual knowledge [1] e.g. ‘My Lai shocked Americans.’ Level 2 Identifies
AND/OR describes agreement/disagreement [2] e.g. ‘300 people were massacred at My Lai.’
‘American people were shocked that American troops had gunned down women and children.’
‘Media coverage turned the American public against the war.’ ‘They withdrew because the economic
cost of the war was too high.’ ‘They withdrew because there were huge numbers of American
casualties.’ ‘Anti-war demonstrations began to occur regularly in American cities.’ Level 3
Explanation of agreement OR disagreement [3–5] e.g. ‘The My Lai massacre turned American people
against the war. 300 people, mainly women and children, were killed because they were believed to
be sheltering members of the Vietcong. No Vietcong were actually found in the village. American
people were shocked that US troops were behaving in such an inhuman way. They felt that this
showed the war in Vietnam had gone badly wrong and therefore American troops should be
withdrawn.’ OR e.g. ‘The economic cost of the war in Vietnam was very high. By 1968 it was costing
$30 000 million each year. This meant that the government had to cut back on social reform. The
war did not seem worth the cost to ordinary Americans, most of whom had lost a relative or friend
in Vietnam, in a war that seemed impossible for America to win .’ Level 4 Explanation of agreement
AND disagreement [5–7] Both sides of Level 3. Level 5 Explains with evaluation of ‘how far’ [8]

Describe the involvement of the USA in Vietnam before Johnson became President in 1963.

Level 0 No evidence submitted or response does not address the question [0] Level 1 General
answer lacking specific contextual knowledge [1] e.g. ‘It was mainly advice and financial support.’
Level 2 Describes involvement [2–5] (One mark for each relevant point; additional mark for
supporting detail.) e.g. ‘The USA helped prevent free elections taking place in Vietnam in 1954
because it feared the Communists would win.’ ‘In 1955, the Americans helped Ngo Dinh Diem to set
up the Republic of South Vietnam. They supported him because he was bitterly anti-Communist.’
‘The USA supported Diem’s regime with $1.6 billion in the 1950s.’ ‘By 1962, Kennedy was sending
military personnel, which he called advisers, to fight the Viet Cong.’ ‘Kennedy supported policies
such as the Strategic Hamlet Programme.’ ‘There were 11 500 US troops in Vietnam by 1962.’

(b) Why were the tactics used by the Vietcong effective?

Level 0 No evidence submitted or response does not address the question [0] Level 1 General
answer lacking specific contextual knowledge [1] e.g. ‘The Vietcong knew their territory.’ Level 2
Identifies AND/OR describes reasons [2–3] (One mark for each point.) e.g. ‘They used guerrilla
tactics.’ ‘They were supported by China and the Soviet Union.’ ‘They had underground bunkers.’
‘They had the Ho Chi Minh trail.’ ‘They were supported by the peasants.’ ‘It was difficult for the
Americans to find the enemy.’ ‘The tactics produced low morale amongst the Americans.’ Level 3
Explains reasons [4–7] (One mark for an explanation, additional mark for full explanation.) e.g. ‘The
guerrilla tactics used were very effective in the jungle. They involved hiding in the jungle and making
surprise attacks, setting booby-traps or planting explosives. Often the US soldiers did not see or
know who their enemy was.’ ‘The Vietcong received reinforcements and supplies from China and the
USSR. Supplies were delivered along the Ho Chi Minh Trail.’ ‘The Vietcong had an extensive network
of underground tunnels and bunkers so they could keep well hidden from American soldiers. The
tunnels included storage, hospitals and kitchens.’

(c) How far was public opinion the main reason for America’s withdrawal from Vietnam? Explain
your answer.

Level 0 No evidence submitted or response does not address the question [0] Level 1 General
answer lacking specific contextual knowledge [1] e.g. ‘It was because people saw what was
happening.’ Level 2 Identifies AND/OR describes reasons [2] (One mark for each point.) e.g. ‘The USA
was not winning the war.’ ‘The war was extremely costly.’ ‘A lot of people were killed.’ ‘There were
stories of drug addiction.’ ‘There were US atrocities committed against the Vietnamese people.’
‘There was a change of policy to Vietnamisation.’ ‘The Tet Offensive shocked the US authorities.’
‘The power of the media turned public opinion.’ Level 3 Explanation of public opinion OR other
reasons [3–5] e.g. ‘The media had a big impact in changing public opinion. This was the first televised
war and Americans were horrified at events such as the attack on My Lai or showing children burned
by napalm. This led to demonstrations and a demand to end the war.’ OR e.g. ‘The US was spending
between $20 and $30 billion a year on the war. In 1967, Life Magazine calculated it cost $400 000 for
each Vietcong guerrilla killed. This huge spending meant cutbacks in spending on social reform.’
Level 4 Explanation of public opinion AND other reasons [5–7] Both sides of Level 3. Level 5 Explains
with evaluation of ‘how far [8]

What was the ‘Gulf of Tonkin’ incident?

Level 1 General answer [1–2] e.g. ‘There was fighting.’ Level 2 Describes events [2–5] (One mark for
each relevant point; additional mark for supporting detail.) e.g. ‘In August 1964, North Vietnamese
patrol boats opened fire on US ships in the Gulf of Tonkin.’ ‘The US Congress passed the Tonkin Gulf
Resolution allowing Johnson to take all necessary measures to prevent further aggression.’ ‘It meant
full-scale war and US marines, combat troops (not advisers), were sent into action.’

(b) Explain the methods used by President Nixon in an attempt to gain ‘peace with honour’ in
Vietnam.

Level 1 General answer [1] e.g. ‘He attempted to make peace.’ ‘He trained the South Vietnamese.’
Level 2 Identifies methods [2–4] (One mark for each) e.g. ‘Nixon introduced ‘Vietnamisation’.’ ‘He
built up the South Vietnamese army with training and equipment.’ ‘Nixon held peace talks with
N.Vietnam.’ ‘He started a gradual withdrawal of US troops.’ ‘Nixon bombed the Ho Chi Minh Trail.’
Level 3 Explains why [4–7] (Award one mark for an explanation, additional mark for full explanation.)
e.g. ‘When Nixon was elected President in 1968, he promised to get the USA out of the war.
Between 1969 and 1973 Nixon and his Security Adviser, Henry Kissinger, devised Vietnamisation, a
process of training the South Vietnam army so that the US army could withdraw.’ ‘Despite wanting
peace, Nixon bombed the Ho Chi Minh Trail, which went through Laos and Cambodia. This was an
attempt to starve the Vietcong of supplies.’ ‘In January 1973, Le Duc Tho, Nixon and President Thieu
signed a peace agreement and the 29th of March ’73 saw the last US troops leaving Vietnam.’ ‘Nixon
had promised the S.Vietnamese financial aid and military support, but Congress refused to allow it.
Shortly afterwards, Nixon resigned because of Watergate.’

‘America withdrew from Vietnam because of military failure.’ How far do you agree with this
statement? Explain your answer.

Level 1 Unsupported assertions [1] e.g. ‘It was public opinion which led to the withdrawal.’ Level 2
Identifies reasons [2–3] e.g. ‘The USA was not winning.’ ‘The war was extremely costly.’ ‘A lot of US
soldiers were killed.’ ‘It was the skill of the guerrillas.’ Level 3 Explains agreement OR disagreement
[3–5] e.g. ‘The US troops had struggled to come to terms with guerrilla warfare. The troops just did
not know when they entered a village whether they were friend or foe. The Vietcong had infiltrated
villages in South Vietnam. They did not wear uniform.’ ‘The policy of search and destroy, bombing
and the use of chemical weapons failed and Johnson realised policy had to change after the Tet
Offensive.’ ‘The cost of war was highlighted by the Tet Offensive. There were nearly 500,000 troops
in Vietnam and the USA was spending up to $30 billion a year yet little impression was being made
and the Vietcong were able to launch major offensives. This spending meant cutbacks in spending on
social reform.’ ‘In 1967, ‘Life Magazine’ calculated that it cost $400,000 for each Vietcong guerrilla
killed.’ ‘The media had a significant impact. It showed children being burned by napalm and people
in villages massacred.’ ‘This was the first televised war and American people were horrified at the
barbaric nature of American attacks such as My Lai.’ Level 4 Explains agreement AND disagreement
[5–7] Both sides of Level 3. Level 5 Explains with evaluative judgement of ‘how far’ [7–8]
Describe American involvement in South Vietnam between 1954 and 1963.

Level 1 General answer [1–2] e.g. ‘It was opposing Communism.’ Level 2 Describes involvement [2–5]
(One mark for relevant point; additional mark for supporting detail.) e.g. ‘Between 1954 and 1960
the USA sent equipment and ‘military advisers’ into South Vietnam.’ ‘In 1954 the Americans
prevented elections from taking place because they feared that the Communists would win.’ ‘In
1955 they helped Diem to set up the Republic of South Vietnam.’ ‘After 1961 Kennedy began
increasing the number of advisers in South Vietnam until there were more than 11 000 Americans in
the country.’ ‘By 1963 America had decided Diem was too corrupt to support and he was deposed
and replaced by anti-communist army generals.’

(b) Why was the Vietcong an effective fighting force?

Level 1 General answer [1] e.g. ‘It was effective because it used the territory.’ Level 2 Identifies why
[2–4] (One mark for each.) e.g. ‘They used effective guerrilla tactics.’ ‘They believed in what they
were fighting for.’ ‘They were supported by China and the Soviet Union.’ ‘They had underground
bunkers and the Ho Chi Minh trail.’ ‘They were supported by the peasants.’ Level 3 Explains why [4–
7] (Award one mark for an explanation, additional mark for full explanation.) e.g. ‘They relied on
guerrilla tactics which were very effective in the jungle. They involved hiding in the jungle and
making surprise attacks, setting booby-traps or planting explosives. By this method the US soldiers
never saw or knew who the enemy was.’ ‘The Vietcong were driven by a passionate belief in the
justice of their cause, whereas the American soldiers were never certain about the justice of theirs.’
‘The Vietcong received reinforcements and supplies from China and the Soviet Union so they never
went without. Supplies were often delivered along the Ho Chi Minh trail.’ ‘The Vietcong had an
extensive network of underground tunnels and bunkers so they could keep well hidden from
American soldiers. The tunnels included storage, hospitals and kitchens to prepare food.’ ‘The
Vietcong had the support of the peasants who often ‘informed’ on the Americans so that they could
be attacked.’

‘The Tet Offensive was the main reason for American withdrawal from Vietnam.’ How far do you
agree with this statement? Explain your answer.

Level 1 Unsupported assertions [1] e.g. ‘It was because people in America were more aware of
events.’ Level 2 Identifies reasons [2–3] e.g. ‘America was not winning.’ ‘The war was extremely
costly.’ ‘A lot of people were killed.’ ‘Change of government policy, e.g. vietnamisation.’ (Allow
description of Tet Offensive here.) Level 3 Explains agreement OR disagreement [3–5] e.g. The Tet
Offensive (1968) proved to be a turning point. It highlighted the cost of war. There were nearly
500,000 troops in Vietnam and America was spending between $20 and $30 billion a year, yet little
impression was being made and the Vietcong were able to launch major offensives like this and take
the US forces completely by surprise. In 1967 ‘Life Magazine’ calculated it cost $400,000 for each
Vietcong guerrilla killed. This huge spending meant cutbacks in spending on social reform. In
addition, the American media started to turn and began to ask difficult questions.’ OR ‘The policy of
search and destroy, bombing and the use of chemical weapons failed and Johnson changed the
policy after the Tet Offensive as he realised the war could not be won militarily.’ ‘The media had a
significant impact. This was the first televised war and American people were horrified at the
barbaric nature of American attacks, an example being My Lai. Coverage showed children being
burned by napalm and people in villages massacred. American people were sickened by these
atrocities and public opinion was changing.’ ‘As more and more soldiers returned in body bags or
were considered to be on drugs, public opinion turned. It led to open criticism of Johnson – “Hey,
Hey, LBJ, how many kids did you kill today”.’ Level 4 Explains agreement AND disagreement [5–7]
Both sides of Level 3. Level 5 Explains with evaluation of ‘how far’ [7–8]

What was the Ho Chi Minh trail?

Level 1 General answer [1–2] e.g. ‘A line of communication.’ Level 2 Describes the Ho Chi Minh trail
[2–5] (One mark for relevant point; additional mark for supporting detail.) e.g. ‘The Vietcong supply
route from North Vietnam.’ ‘A series of supply lines through the jungle that were vital to the
Communists along which supplies from China were sent to South Vietnam.’

(b) Why did the USA become increasingly involved in Vietnam in the years up to 1965?

Level 1 General answer [1] e.g. ‘To help South Vietnam.’ Level 2 Identifies why [2–4] (One mark for
each.) e.g. ‘To stop the spread of Communism.’ ‘To enforce American policy.’ ‘A warship was
attacked.’ ‘Congress authorised support.’ Level 3 Explains why [4–7] (Award one mark for
explanation, additional mark for full explanation.) e.g. ‘Until 1954 the USA supported the French
against the Vietminh. After 1954 they continued to send aid, equipment and military advisers with
the number of advisers steadily increasing to support Diem.’ ‘South Vietnamese commandos helped
by the US warship Maddox attacked North Vietnamese radar stations. The Maddox was then
attacked by three North Vietnamese torpedo boats. There were no losses. The captain of the
Maddox then reported he had been attacked. As an election was imminent. Johnson wanted to get
tough on communism. Johnson ordered American planes to bomb North Vietnam naval bases.’ ‘In
August 1964, Johnson told Congress that an attack had taken place and Congress gave him power to
do ‘any thing necessary’ to defend freedom in South East Asia.’ ‘In February 1965 the Vietcong
attacked American air bases. Johnson ordered ‘Operation Rolling Thunder’ and in March sent
American soldiers to protect American air bases.’

‘The USA lost the Vietnam War because its military strategy and tactics were wrong.’ How far do you
agree with this statement? Explain your answer.

Level 1 Unsupported assertions [1] e.g. ‘It was because people in America were more aware of
events.’ Level 2 Identifies reasons [2–3] e.g. ‘The war was extremely costly.’ ‘American tactics were
wrong for the jungle.’ ‘Change of government policy, e.g. vietnamisation.’ ‘It was the use of guerrilla
warfare.’ (Allow description of Tet Offensive here.) Level 3 Explains agreement OR disagreement [3–
5] e.g. ‘The policy of search and destroy, bombing and the use of chemical weapons failed and
Johnson changed the policy after the Tet Offensive as he realised the war could not be won
militarily. ‘The Tet Offensive (1968) proved to be a turning point. It highlighted the cost of war. There
were nearly 500,000 troops in Vietnam and America was spending between $20 and $30 billion a
year, yet little impression was being made and the Vietcong were able to launch major offensives
like this and take the US forces completely by surprise. In 1967 ‘Life Magazine’ calculated it cost
$400,000 for each Vietcong guerrilla killed. This huge spending meant cutbacks in spending on social
reform. In addition, the American media started to turn and began to ask difficult questions.’ OR
‘The media had a significant impact. This was the first televised war and American people were
horrified at the barbaric nature of American attacks, an example being My Lai. Coverage showed
children being burned by napalm and people in villages massacred. American people were sickened
by these atrocities and public opinion was changing.’ ‘Public opinion was changing. The war was very
costly in terms of military supplies and yet the Vietcong could still attack Saigon.’ ‘As more and more
soldiers returned in body bags or were considered to be on drugs, public opinion turned. It led to
open criticism of Johnson – “Hey, Hey, LBJ, how many kids did you kill today”.’ Level 4 Explains
agreement AND disagreement [5–7] Both sides of Level 3. Level 5 Explains with evaluation of ‘how
far’ [7–8]

What did the Geneva Agreements of 1954 decide about the future of Vietnam?

Level 1 General answer [1–2] e.g. ‘It decided about territory.’ ‘It decided about control.’ Level 2
Describes the Agreements [2–5] e.g. ‘Vietnam should be split along the 17th parallel.’ ‘Vietminh
forces would pull out of South Vietnam and French forces would pull out of North Vietnam.’ ‘North
Vietnam would be controlled by Ho Chi Minh. South Vietnam would be ruled by Ngo Dinh Diem.’
‘Free elections would be held in Vietnam by July 1956 to decide how the country would be re-
unified.’

Why did Johnson increase American involvement in Vietnam?

Level 1 General answer [1] e.g. ‘To offer protection.’ Level 2 Identifies why [2–4] e.g. ‘To be re-
elected.’ ‘To enforce American policy.’ ‘A warship was attacked.’ ‘He was given power Congress.’
Level 3 Explains why [4–7] e.g. ‘South Vietnamese commandos helped by the US warship Maddox
attacked North Vietnamese radar stations. The Maddox was then attacked by three North
Vietnamese torpedo boats. There were no losses. The captain of the Maddox then reported he had
been attacked. As an election was imminent Johnson wanted to get tough on communism. Johnson
ordered American planes to bomb North Vietnam naval bases.’ ‘In August 1964, Johnson told
Congress that an attack had taken place and Congress gave him power to do ‘any thing necessary’ to
defend freedom in South East Asia.’ ‘In February 1965 the Vietcong attacked American air bases.
Johnson ordered ‘operation Rolling Thunder’ and in March sent American soldiers to protect
American air bases.

What was the ‘Domino Theory’?

Level 1 General answer 1–2 e.g. ‘It was something the Americans believed.’ Level 2 Describes the
theory 2–5 e.g. ‘The Americans believed that if one country in South East Asia turned communist all
the others would fall to communism, one after another, like a row of dominoes.’ (2) ‘They were
afraid that if communists took over South Vietnam, communism would go on to take over the
world.’ ‘In addition to Vietnam, the countries under threat were Laos, Cambodia, Thailand, Malaya,
Indonesia and Japan. (1 mark for one country; 2 marks for two or more.) ‘It was related to the USA’s
Cold War containment policy.’

Why did the Vietnam War become increasingly unpopular with the people of America?

Level 1 General answer 1 e.g. ‘Because they were aware of what was happening.’ Level 2 Identifies
why 2–4 e.g. ‘The level of casualties was high.’ ‘The economic cost of war was high.’ ‘The use of
horrific weapons and the use of certain military tactics.’ ‘Stories of drug addiction.’ ‘US atrocities
committed against the Vietnamese people.’ Level 3 Explains why 4–7 e.g. ‘The Vietnam War was the
first televised war and because it received so much media coverage brought home to Americans the
stark reality of war.’ ‘Casualties were high. Over 50,000 troops were to lose their lives. By 1968, 300
were dying each week. Most Americans knew a relative or friend who had died.’ ‘By 1968 the war
was costing $30,000 million each year. This meant cutbacks at home on spending on social reform.’
‘The use of horrific weapons such as napalm against civilians shocked people. It stuck to the skin and
caused severe burns.’ ‘The Americans sprayed chemical defoliants which destroyed vegetation,
polluted the land and poisoned people and this horrified people.’ ‘US atrocities against the
Vietnamese shocked Americans. An example was the village of My Lai were 300 were massacred.’
‘The USA was unsuccessful in Vietnam because of the opposition’s use of guerrilla tactics.’ How far
do you agree with this statement? Explain your answer.

Level 1 Unsupported assertions 1 e.g. ‘They were unable to cope with guerrilla warfare because it
was different.’ Level 2 Identifies reasons 2–3 e.g. ‘Guerrilla tactics brought low morale.’ ‘The
guerrillas merged with the people and the jungle.’ ‘There was constant fear of attack.’ ‘Support at
home was lost.’ ‘The underground tunnels helped the Vietcong.’ Level 3 Explains agreement OR
disagreement 3–5 Level 4 Explains agreement AND disagreement 5–7 e.g. ‘The Vietcong were no
match for the American forces in open warfare and so developed guerrilla tactics.’ ‘The principles
were simple. Retreat when the enemy attacks, raid when the enemy camps, attack when the enemy
tires and pursue when the enemy retreats.’ ‘The tactics were a nightmare. Guerrillas did not wear
uniform and did not have base camps or headquarters. They were hard to tell from the peasants in
the villages. They attacked and then disappeared into the jungle.’ ‘Their aim was to wear down the
enemy soldiers and reduce morale. US soldiers lived in constant fear of attack.’ ‘American troops
were inexperienced and often had low morale. The average age was just nineteen. They became
frustrated at not being able to fight back and were frightened in such a hostile country.’ ‘The USA
failed to win the support of the Vietnamese peasants. They generally viewed the Americans as
invaders and chose to support the Vietcong who offered to improve their lives.’ ‘The Americans lost
support at home when it became clear that the USA could not win the war and started to use
unconventional tactics.’ ‘The Vietcong were backed by China and used the Ho Chi Minh Trail to bring
supplies to their bases in South Vietnam.’ ‘The Vietcong bases were well hidden in extensive
underground bunkers making it very difficult to destroy.’ Level 5 Explains with evaluation of ‘how far’
7–8

Who were the Vietcong?

Level 1 General answer [1-2] e.g. ‘People who fought against the USA.’ ‘Communists.’ Level 2
Describes who were the Vietcong [2-5] e.g. ‘The communist guerrilla force of the National Liberation
Front.’ ‘They were backed by the USSR and China.’ ‘They had the support of the peasants of South
Vietnam as they treated them well.’ ‘They included South Vietnamese opponents of the government
and Communist North Vietnamese taking their orders from Ho Chi Minh.’

(b) Why did the USA get involved in the war in Vietnam?

Level 1 General answer [1] e.g. ‘To protect capitalism.’ Level 2 Identifies why [2-4] e.g. ‘France had
lost its colony.’ ‘They feared the spread of communism.’ ‘The number of communist countries was
increasing.’ ‘Because of the Tonkin incident.’ Level 3 Explains why [4-7] e.g. ‘After the Second World
War the USA feared the expansion of communism across Europe and Asia. They believed the future
of US prosperity and democracy was at risk if communism was allowed to spread.’ ‘In 1954 the
French were driven from their colony and the US feared that communism would spread.’
‘Communism was spreading and by 1956 the Soviet Union, China, eastern Europe and North Korea
all had communist governments. Americans felt increasingly threatened by the spread of
communism. ‘This fear was based on the “domino theory” where if one country became communist
others would follow. If South Vietnam fell it would be followed by Laos, Cambodia, Thailand, Burma,
India and Pakistan.’ ‘In 1964 the North Vietnamese opened fire on the US navy and the US Congress
gave the new President, Johnson, the necessary powers to deal with the problem.’
How far can the American withdrawal from Vietnam be blamed on military failure? Explain your
answer.

Level 1 Unsupported assertions [1] e.g. ‘It was because people saw what was happening.’ Level 2
Identifies reasons [2-3] e.g. ‘America was not winning.’ ‘The war was extremely costly.’ ‘A lot of
people were killed.’ Level 3 Explains agreement OR disagreement [3-5] Level 4 Explains agreement
AND disagreement [5-7] e.g. Military failure The cost of war was highlighted by ‘The Tet Offensive.
There were nearly 500,000 troops in Vietnam and America was spending between $20 to $30 billion
a year yet little impression was being made and the Vietcong were able to launch major offensives.
This huge spending meant cutbacks in spending on social reform.’ ‘In 1967 ‘Life Magazine’ calculated
it cost $400,000 for each Vietcong guerrilla killed.’ ‘The policy of search and destroy, bombing and
the use of chemical weapons failed and Johnson changed the policy after the Tet Offensive as he
realised the war could not be won militarily. A policy of Vietnamisation was adopted.’ ‘Public opinion
was changing. The war was very costly in terms of military supplies and yet the Vietcong could still
attack Saigon.’ ‘This was the first televised war and American people were horrified at the barbaric
nature of American attacks an example being My Lai.’ ‘As more and more soldiers returned in body
bags or were considered to be on drugs, public opinion turned.’ ‘It led to open criticism of Johnson –
“Hey, Hey, LBJ, how many kids did you kill today”.’ ‘The Media had a significant impact. It showed
children being burned by napalm and people in villages massacred.’ Level 5 Explains with evaluation
of ‘how far’ [8]

What was the Ho Chi Minh Trail?

Level 1 General answer 1-2 e.g. 'A route named after the leader of North Vietnam.' 'A link route.'
Level 2 Describes what it was 2-5 e.g. 'A network of tracks for bicycles, trucks and tanks.' 'It was the
supply route from north to South Vietnam.' 'It passed through Laos and Cambodia.' 'It was used to
move troops from North Vietnam after 1964.' 'They were jungle tracks.' ‘A route between North and
South Vietnam.’

Why did the USA find it impossible to defeat the Vietcong?

Level 1 General answer 1 e.g. 'Because they were fighting in their own country.' Level 2 Identifies
why 2-4 e.g. 'Because of the difficulty of the terrain.' 'Because of guerrilla warfare.' 'It was difficult to
find the enemy.' Level 3 Explains why 4-7 e.g. 'The Vietcong continued to receive supplies from
North Vietnam and China down the Ho Chi Minh Trail.' 'The Vietcong fought a guerrilla war. They
came out of the jungle and carried out acts of sabotage or sudden ambushes or booby traps. The
American soldiers lived in constant fear of surprise attack and this affected morale.’ 'They had the
support of most locals and were easily absorbed back into village life.' 'The Americans were unable
to distinguish between villagers and Vietcong members.' 'In the jungle the Vietcong built extensive
networks of tunnels where they had storehouses, workshops, kitchens and hospitals. These were
very difficult to find and destroy.

How far was the US public opinion the most important reason for America's withdrawal from
Vietnam? Explain your answer.

Level 1 Unsupported assertions 1 e.g. 'It was because people saw what was happening.' Level 2
Identifies reasons 2-3 e.g. 'America were not winning.' 'The war was extremely costly.' 'A lot of
people were killed.' Level 3 Explains agreement OR disagreement 3-5 Level 4 Explains agreement
AND disagreement 5-7 e.g. 'Public opinion was changing. The war was very costly in terms of military
supplies and yet the Vietcong could still attack Saigon.' 'This was the first televised war and American
people were horrified at the barbaric nature of American attacks an example being My Lai.' 'As more
and more soldiers returned in body bags or were considered to be on drugs, public opinion turned.'
'It led to open criticism of Johnson -"Hey, Hey, LBJ, how many kids did you kill today”.' 'The Tet
Offensive highlighted the cost of war. There were nearly 500,000 troops in Vietnam and America was
spending $20 billion a year yet little impression was being made and the Vietcong were able to
launch major offensives.' 'The Media had a significant impact. It showed children being burned by
napalm and people in villages massacred.' 'The policy of search and destroy, bombing and the use of
chemical weapons failed and Johnson changed the policy after the Tet Offensive as he realised the
war could not be won militarily. A policy of Vietnamisation was adopted.' Level 5 Explains with
evaluation 8