Examine the policy of the United States toward Vietnam during the Truman and Eisenhower administrations.

During the Truman and Eisenhower administrations, the United States had a policy of containment towards Vietnam. This policy was based on the belief that communism needed to be contained and prevented from spreading further.

Under Truman, the United States provided economic and military aid to the French, who were fighting against the communist Viet Minh forces in Vietnam. This support was part of the broader policy of containment and reflected the fear of the spread of communism in Southeast Asia.

During Eisenhower's presidency, the United States continued to support the French in their efforts to maintain control over Vietnam. However, as the situation in Vietnam deteriorated, the Eisenhower administration became increasingly concerned about the spread of communism in the region. This led to the decision to increase American involvement in Vietnam, ultimately leading to direct military intervention in the form of the Vietnam War.

Overall, the policy of the United States towards Vietnam during the Truman and Eisenhower administrations was one of containment and support for anti-communist forces. This ultimately led to increased American involvement in Vietnam and the eventual escalation of the conflict into a full-scale war.