1. End of the Vietnam War

2. Democrats lose big Democrats are in disarray over the Vietnam War
LBJ does not seek re-election
Martin Luther King Assassinated
Bobby Kennedy assassinated by Sirhan Sirhan. Dem nomination is wide open
LBJ’s VP, Hubert Humphery, wins Dem nomination amidst rioting in Chicago
Richard Nixon becomes 37th Pres of US

3. Pentagon Papers
7,000 page top secret report issued by the Department of Defense
Leaked to the press in 1971 by Daniel Elsberg
Nixon said, "people have gotta be put to the torch for this sort of thing..." and "let's get the son-of-a-bitch in jail."
Papers show US expanding the war in the 60’s
No exit strategy
Creates a “credibility gap” between government and people

4. U.S. Supreme Court Nixon sues NY Times to keep documents sealed
NY Times and Co. vs. U.S.
U.S. cannot keep Times from publishing articles – Gov did not show that documents affect national security
1st Amendment extended for Newspaper

5. Dissent in America
students protest war at Kent St. University, Ohio
Governor vowed to “eradicate” protesters. Nice.
National Guard is sent in. Chaos leads to confusion. Troops open fire on protesters. Four are killed, nine are wounded.

6. Final Negotiations
Tries “Vietnamization” – US trains S.V. army to fight while we get out
“Peace with honor”
Yes! January of 1973
US leaves and rebuilds Vietnam
Elections are not settled
Prisoner exchange
Both sides claim victory

7. End of Vietnam War
April, 1975 Saigon (capital of SV) taken over by NVA. Americans leave, SV becomes a part of NV. US loses.
War Powers Act – congress can only declare war, must be notified if pres is going to fight, and has 60 day limit if he fights
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