Vietnam: The Birth of a Nation

Episode 2

Division: 1954 - 1962

The Battle of Dien Bien Phu, in 1954, marks the end of French colonial rule in Vietnam, but the country pays a heavy price: the peace negotiations let to the country’s division. The north comes under communist control, and the south becomes an ally of the United States.

Episode 3

War: 1963 - 1968

When, in 1963, South Vietnamese President Ngo Dinh Diem is overthrown and assassinated during a military coup, U. S. President Lyndon B. Johnson sends troops to Vietnam.

Episode 4

Reunification: 1968 - Today

In 1973, U. S. troops withdraw from South Vietnam. Saigon falls in 1975, marking the victory of North Vietnam and communism.