The Korean War “The Forgotten War” 1950-1953

Cold War in Asia During the 1930’s the Communists had gained control back over China. After WWII, the Nationalists of China began to fight for control to overthrow the Communists.

Cold War in Asia Even though the Nationalists were corrupt, the U.S. preferred them to Communism. After a civil war between the Nationalists and Communists, China became a communist country.

Causes U.S. vs. Communism North invades South After WWII, Korea is split into North (communist) and South (anti- communist) at the 38th parallel. North invades South In June, 1950 the North invades the South, the U.S. provides assistance to the South. Led by General McArthur

38th Parallel

North Korea invades the South After North Korea invaded the South many Americans wondered if Truman would do anything. Truman ordered naval and air support for South Korea. The American forces were placed under the control of General Douglas MacArthur.

North vs. South North Korea drove their forces South capturing, Seoul (the capital of South Korea). They had driven the South Korean forces down into the southeastern corner of the peninsula near the city of Pusan.

MacArthur’s Counter-attack On September 15, 1950 MacAruthur’s troops made a surprise attack at Inchon. They had attacked the North Korean forces from behind.

Inchon After North Korea advanced into South Korea, the U.S lands at Inchon and South Korea launched a counterattack, pushing the North back across the 38th parallel. China fights back With the help of China, North Korea pushes back across the 38th parallel.

General MacArthur Because the Chinese were aiding the North Korean forces, General MacArthur wanted to send air strikes and ground attacks on Chinese cities. Truman did not want this war to expand beyond Korea and refused to approve MacArthur’s plan of attack. MacArthur was angry and openly criticized Truman. Truman then removed MacArthur as commander, which made many Americans upset.

Truman vs. MacArthur Vs.

End of the Korean War By 1951 it seemed clear that neither side in Korea was going to win. Peace negotiations began in 1951 but little progress was made and many Americans grew more frustrated.

A New President The Korean War became a big issue in the 1952 presidential election. Many people blamed Truman for the war and he did not seek re-election. Former general Dwight D. Eisenhower was elected when he pledged to end the war in Korea.

Korean War ends Despite Eisenhower, the peace talks remained stalled. In July 1953, the two sides signed an agreement. After three years Korea remained divided along the 38th parallel. Americans had suffered 155,000 casualties, North Koreans and the Chinese 1.5 million. Tense relations between the North and South continue today while U.S. forces have remained stationed along the border.