The Johnson Administration - 1964

1964

Expectations of improvement in the GVN fail to materialize: several coups and various political struggles within the military lead to a deep decline in war-fighting

In March of 1964, GVN controlled 34% of villages; NLF 42% of villages

North Vietnam moved to escalate its role in 1964 by infiltrating large units into the south

The U.S. is frustrated and begins planning for bombing of NVN in March 1964

July-August 1964 Tonkin Gulf Incidents:
balance of evidence indicates attacks did not happen
Johnson orders limited air attacks on NVN
Johnson seizes on reports to gain a Congressional resolution to support his policies

August 5, 1964 Tonkin Gulf Resolution: "take all necessary measures"

In October and November 1964 planning for various military options intensifies as war goes badly