Vietnamese History in the 20th Century - Essay Example

Vietnam, however, suffered more internal repression as it was internally isolated because of continued cold war. With the helm of President Dwight Eisenhower and John Kennedy, Vietnam was able to make economic policy reforms, that have made it enjoy marked economic growth and reduced political repression, but corruption was still evident. The leadership styles of these leaders have had both effective and ineffective qualities.Vietnam was under the rule of France, for the better part of the 20th century.

Geneva conference of 1954 left Vietnam divided, with the North being ruled by Ho Chi Minh of the communist government and the South being ruled by Ngo Dinh Diem, who was supported by the US. Between 1954 and 1975, the 2nd Indochina War between Vietnam’s Peoples Army and Vietnam Congress from the North brought Vietnam unification but under communist rule, with the south being supported by the US. With US military support, the southerners were able to maintain their independence. Two years later, US forces withdrew and South Vietnam fell again to the communists.

During the times that the US were involved in the war, it is estimated that 3 million people lost their lives while 4 million were seriously injured.In 1978 to 1989, the international isolation of Vietnam extended its relations with the United States. The US barred normal ties with Vietnam for as long their forces remained in Cambodia, besides citing its minimal cooperation so as to account for Americans missing in action, as an obstacle to their relations.