Museum Exhibits

GALLERY II - PRELUDE TO WAR

Before going to Vietnam, many soldiers were shown a Department of Defense film explaining America's role in Vietnam. In this gallery, visitors will view audio-visual presentations featuring various leaders and statesmen including Presidents Eisenhower, Kennedy, Johnson, and Nixon discussing the reasons for our presence in Indochina and Vietnam.

The presentations will include the history of the Cold War, the "Domino Theory," and a brief history of colonial Vietnam, through the partition of the country in 1954. Maps, artifacts such as weapons and uniforms from the period, and significant images from the Cold War era will be included in the exhibits in this gallery.

Events throughout the world, as well as material about and images of world leaders from this period will be included. This will allow visitors to better understand the significance of the world situation on decision making in the United States government. Only by understanding the era can we begin to appreciate the rationale behind these decisions.

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