Background of Vietnam

Vietnam was ruled by France, whose harsh treatment led to the rise of the Viet Minh under communist leader Ho Chi Minh. In 1945, as the French sought to reclaim control from Japan, Ho resisted, leading to nine years of fighting. The Viet Minh controlled the North, while the French held much of the South. Despite $500 million annually in U.S. support, the French were unable to maintain control and withdrew in 1954. A peace conference in Geneva resulted in Vietnam being divided into North and South until elections could be held.