Vietnam's Turbulent Politics

Diem's autocratic rule in South Vietnam led to widespread unpopularity and a brutal crackdown on political rivals, including the arrest and execution of thousands. The U.S. supported him due to the domino theory, fearing the spread of communism in Southeast Asia. His assassination in 1963 marked a pivotal moment, ultimately leading to the Gulf of Tonkin incident and the escalation of American military involvement in Vietnam.