Potsdam Conference
July 17th, 1945 to August 2nd, 1945
Soon after the end of World War II three Ally leaders, Soviet Premier Joseph Stalin, British Prime Minister Winston Churchill, and President Truman held the Potsdam Conference in Germany to discuss how to handle Germany and other countries.[1] The conference took place from July 17th, 1945 to August 2nd, 1945,[2] just months after the Yalta Conference in Crimea Russia, where Churchill, Stalin, and President Roosevelt tried to make plans for the postwar world[3], the plans set in motion at this conference, however, were short lived and thus caused a need for another meeting. The Potsdam Conference discussed issues such as changing how to charge Germany with post war reparations – at the Yalta Conference it was decided that half of the money should be given to the Soviet Union, this however was decided against in Potsdam.[4] Although there were several disagreements, the Allies did come to a few agreements: they decided that there was to be “a complete disbarment and demilitarization of Germany” meaning all of Germany’s military and paramilitary systems were to be eliminated.[5] The most controversial of the matters dealt with at Potsdam was the revision of the German-Soviet-Polish borders and the removal of the Germans from the new Soviet and Polish territories.[6] This conference was the last time the Allied leaders ever got together to discuss postwar events.[7]
[1] Truman Library. Harry Truman and The Potsdam Conference. n.d. 17 November 2014. <http://www.trumanlibrary.org/teacher/potsdam.htm>.
[2]Truman Library. Harry Truman and The Potsdam Conference. n.d. WEB. 17 November 2014.
[3]Office of the Historian. The Yalta Conference, 1945. n.d. WEB. 17 November 2014.
<https://history.state.gov/milestones/1937-1945/yalta-conf>.
[4] Truman Library. Harry Truman and The Potsdam Conference. n.d. WEB. 17 November 2014.
[5] Office of the Historian. The Potsdam Conference,1945. n.d. WEB. 17 November 2014.
<https://history.state.gov/milestones/1937-1945/potsdam-conf >.
[6] Office of the Historian. The Potsdam Conference,1945. n.d. WEB. 17 November 2014.
[7] Office of the Historian. The Potsdam Conference,1945. n.d. WEB. 17 November 2014.
July 17th, 1945 to August 2nd, 1945
Soon after the end of World War II three Ally leaders, Soviet Premier Joseph Stalin, British Prime Minister Winston Churchill, and President Truman held the Potsdam Conference in Germany to discuss how to handle Germany and other countries.[1] The conference took place from July 17th, 1945 to August 2nd, 1945,[2] just months after the Yalta Conference in Crimea Russia, where Churchill, Stalin, and President Roosevelt tried to make plans for the postwar world[3], the plans set in motion at this conference, however, were short lived and thus caused a need for another meeting. The Potsdam Conference discussed issues such as changing how to charge Germany with post war reparations – at the Yalta Conference it was decided that half of the money should be given to the Soviet Union, this however was decided against in Potsdam.[4] Although there were several disagreements, the Allies did come to a few agreements: they decided that there was to be “a complete disbarment and demilitarization of Germany” meaning all of Germany’s military and paramilitary systems were to be eliminated.[5] The most controversial of the matters dealt with at Potsdam was the revision of the German-Soviet-Polish borders and the removal of the Germans from the new Soviet and Polish territories.[6] This conference was the last time the Allied leaders ever got together to discuss postwar events.[7]
[1] Truman Library. Harry Truman and The Potsdam Conference. n.d. 17 November 2014. <http://www.trumanlibrary.org/teacher/potsdam.htm>.
[2]Truman Library. Harry Truman and The Potsdam Conference. n.d. WEB. 17 November 2014.
[3]Office of the Historian. The Yalta Conference, 1945. n.d. WEB. 17 November 2014.
<https://history.state.gov/milestones/1937-1945/yalta-conf>.
[4] Truman Library. Harry Truman and The Potsdam Conference. n.d. WEB. 17 November 2014.
[5] Office of the Historian. The Potsdam Conference,1945. n.d. WEB. 17 November 2014.
<https://history.state.gov/milestones/1937-1945/potsdam-conf >.
[6] Office of the Historian. The Potsdam Conference,1945. n.d. WEB. 17 November 2014.
[7] Office of the Historian. The Potsdam Conference,1945. n.d. WEB. 17 November 2014.
38th Parallel Division
World War II had just come to a close when the Soviet Union moved into Northern Korea seizing the country out of the Japanese control.[1] This occurred during August of 1945 shortly after the end of the Potsdam Conference in Germany. President Truman was fearful that all of Europe and the eastern world would turn to communism due to the weak post war governments. To account for this, the United States foreign policy became focused around containing communism.[2] Once the Soviet Union took control, President Truman sent in troops without waiting for the approval from Congress in an attempt to save the country from communism. This occupation of Korea became the first site for major battle that later sparked the Korean War.[3] Later in 1945 the Korean Peninsula was divided between the Soviet backed government in the North and an American backed government in the south, this lead to a temporary division along the 38th parallel latitude line that bisected the country. [4] This division became more permanent in 1946 when The Democratic People’s Republic was formed in the now communist North Korea, and The Republic of Korea was formed in the American influenced South Korea.
[1] “Teaching With Documents: The United States Enters the Korean Conflict”. National Archives. n.d. WEB. 22 November 2014. <http://www.archives.gov/education/lessons/korean-conflict/>
[2] “Korean War.” History. N.d.WEB. 22 November 2014. http://www.history.com/topics/korean-war
[3] “Teaching With Documents: The United States Enters the Korean Conflict”. National Archives.
[4] “Teaching With Documents: The United States Enters the Korean Conflict”. National Archives.
World War II had just come to a close when the Soviet Union moved into Northern Korea seizing the country out of the Japanese control.[1] This occurred during August of 1945 shortly after the end of the Potsdam Conference in Germany. President Truman was fearful that all of Europe and the eastern world would turn to communism due to the weak post war governments. To account for this, the United States foreign policy became focused around containing communism.[2] Once the Soviet Union took control, President Truman sent in troops without waiting for the approval from Congress in an attempt to save the country from communism. This occupation of Korea became the first site for major battle that later sparked the Korean War.[3] Later in 1945 the Korean Peninsula was divided between the Soviet backed government in the North and an American backed government in the south, this lead to a temporary division along the 38th parallel latitude line that bisected the country. [4] This division became more permanent in 1946 when The Democratic People’s Republic was formed in the now communist North Korea, and The Republic of Korea was formed in the American influenced South Korea.
[1] “Teaching With Documents: The United States Enters the Korean Conflict”. National Archives. n.d. WEB. 22 November 2014. <http://www.archives.gov/education/lessons/korean-conflict/>
[2] “Korean War.” History. N.d.WEB. 22 November 2014. http://www.history.com/topics/korean-war
[3] “Teaching With Documents: The United States Enters the Korean Conflict”. National Archives.
[4] “Teaching With Documents: The United States Enters the Korean Conflict”. National Archives.
Communist North & US Backed South
After the 38th parallel division of the Korean peninsula two rival governments were set up. In the North the leaders were controlled by Soviet Union and China. While in the south President Truman and the United States were the driving influences for their new democratic form of government.[1] In early 1946 the division was made more permanent when leader Kim II Sung organized a communist government in the north; it was called, the Democratic People’s Republic.[2] In response to this a man named Syngman Rhee was elected the leader in setting up and running the new government, the Republic of Korea. The two leaders wanted to reunify the country, each using their form of government.[3] President Truman backed South Korea, in hopes to contain and possibly expel communism in the north. The United States involvement with the formation of the new government in South Korea was a crucial event to the beginning of the Korean War. Even with America influencing the south,President Truman was fearful that the North Koreans would soon invade, claiming the entire peninsula - and possibly the rest of Asia - for communism.[4] Because of this communist invasion, President Truman formulated the Truman Doctrine in 1947. This doctrine promised assistance of the United States military and economic support to any democratic nation that was at risk of being taken over by communist ideas.[5]
[1] “The Korean War, 1950-1953.” Office of the Historian. n.d. WEB. 22 November 2014. <https://history.state.gov/milestones/1945-1952/korean-war-2>
[2] “Teaching With Documents: The United States Enters the Korean Conflict.” National Archives. n.d. WEB> 22 November 2014. <http://www.archives.gov/education/lessons/korean-conflict/>
[3] “The Korean War, 1950-1953.” Office of the Historian.
[4] “Teaching With Documents: The United States Enters the Korean Conflict.” National Archives.
[5] Gaddis, John Lewis. “Reconsiderations: The Cold War Was the Truman Doctrine a Real Turning Point?” January 1974. WEB. 22 November 2014. <http://www.foreignaffairs.com/articles/24491/john-lewis-gaddis/reconsiderations-the-cold-war-was-the-truman-doctrine-a-real-tur>
After the 38th parallel division of the Korean peninsula two rival governments were set up. In the North the leaders were controlled by Soviet Union and China. While in the south President Truman and the United States were the driving influences for their new democratic form of government.[1] In early 1946 the division was made more permanent when leader Kim II Sung organized a communist government in the north; it was called, the Democratic People’s Republic.[2] In response to this a man named Syngman Rhee was elected the leader in setting up and running the new government, the Republic of Korea. The two leaders wanted to reunify the country, each using their form of government.[3] President Truman backed South Korea, in hopes to contain and possibly expel communism in the north. The United States involvement with the formation of the new government in South Korea was a crucial event to the beginning of the Korean War. Even with America influencing the south,President Truman was fearful that the North Koreans would soon invade, claiming the entire peninsula - and possibly the rest of Asia - for communism.[4] Because of this communist invasion, President Truman formulated the Truman Doctrine in 1947. This doctrine promised assistance of the United States military and economic support to any democratic nation that was at risk of being taken over by communist ideas.[5]
[1] “The Korean War, 1950-1953.” Office of the Historian. n.d. WEB. 22 November 2014. <https://history.state.gov/milestones/1945-1952/korean-war-2>
[2] “Teaching With Documents: The United States Enters the Korean Conflict.” National Archives. n.d. WEB> 22 November 2014. <http://www.archives.gov/education/lessons/korean-conflict/>
[3] “The Korean War, 1950-1953.” Office of the Historian.
[4] “Teaching With Documents: The United States Enters the Korean Conflict.” National Archives.
[5] Gaddis, John Lewis. “Reconsiderations: The Cold War Was the Truman Doctrine a Real Turning Point?” January 1974. WEB. 22 November 2014. <http://www.foreignaffairs.com/articles/24491/john-lewis-gaddis/reconsiderations-the-cold-war-was-the-truman-doctrine-a-real-tur>
North Korea Invades South Korea
June 25, 1950
The Korean War really began when about 75,000 soldiers from the North Korean People’s Army broke out across the 38th parallel, the boundary between the Democratic People’s Republic of North Korea and the Republic of South Korea. This invasion was the first military action of the Cold War. The North Koreans, led by Kim Il-Sung, had been secretly planning a South Korean invasion for years, and thanks to training and arms support from the USSR, they launched their assault on South Korea on June 25, at 4:40 am. In this invasion, Kim Il-Sung had to lobby for support from two major partners, both of which he successfully brought in. He first gained the support of Communist China under their leader, Mao Zedong in 1949, after they defeated the nationalists of their own country. Zedong, did not need to be swayed by Il-Sung because he feared that if North Korea lost to South, China would be in danger of foreign invasion.[1] Not willing to risk that, Zedong sent multiple divisions of troops to aid the North Koreans in their efforts. The USSR however, led by Joseph Stalin, Il-Sung found, would not be as easy to persuade. Stalin’s main fear was that supporting North Korea would end up in a huge war with the USA. However, that opinion soon changed when the Soviets successfully created their first atomic bomb, which would make the US more hesitant to attack them. Additionally, the U.S.A rejected a bill calling to send financial aid to South Korea.[2] Even though that bill was passed some time later, the American intentions were clear. Once the United State’s loyalties were more transparent and Stalin felt more comfortable, Kim Il-Sung visited Moscow and convinced Stalin to join him in his efforts. Together, they planned to take South Korea in a mere 3 weeks.
[1] "The War Begins – the Invasion of South Korea." Background to the Invasion. N.p., n.d. Web. 01 Dec. 2014.
[2] "The Cold War and the Crisis in Korea." Communist Leaders and Their Policies. N.p., n.d. Web. 01 Dec. 2014.
June 25, 1950
The Korean War really began when about 75,000 soldiers from the North Korean People’s Army broke out across the 38th parallel, the boundary between the Democratic People’s Republic of North Korea and the Republic of South Korea. This invasion was the first military action of the Cold War. The North Koreans, led by Kim Il-Sung, had been secretly planning a South Korean invasion for years, and thanks to training and arms support from the USSR, they launched their assault on South Korea on June 25, at 4:40 am. In this invasion, Kim Il-Sung had to lobby for support from two major partners, both of which he successfully brought in. He first gained the support of Communist China under their leader, Mao Zedong in 1949, after they defeated the nationalists of their own country. Zedong, did not need to be swayed by Il-Sung because he feared that if North Korea lost to South, China would be in danger of foreign invasion.[1] Not willing to risk that, Zedong sent multiple divisions of troops to aid the North Koreans in their efforts. The USSR however, led by Joseph Stalin, Il-Sung found, would not be as easy to persuade. Stalin’s main fear was that supporting North Korea would end up in a huge war with the USA. However, that opinion soon changed when the Soviets successfully created their first atomic bomb, which would make the US more hesitant to attack them. Additionally, the U.S.A rejected a bill calling to send financial aid to South Korea.[2] Even though that bill was passed some time later, the American intentions were clear. Once the United State’s loyalties were more transparent and Stalin felt more comfortable, Kim Il-Sung visited Moscow and convinced Stalin to join him in his efforts. Together, they planned to take South Korea in a mere 3 weeks.
[1] "The War Begins – the Invasion of South Korea." Background to the Invasion. N.p., n.d. Web. 01 Dec. 2014.
[2] "The Cold War and the Crisis in Korea." Communist Leaders and Their Policies. N.p., n.d. Web. 01 Dec. 2014.
United Nations
On June 25th, 1950 North Korean troops set out on an invasion aimed at several points along the 38th parallel on their way to the South Korean capital city, Seoul.[1] The United States was worried that they would lose Korea to communists and President Truman - after deciding that this impending war was not a matter for the United States Congress - took the matter to the United Nations Security Council.[2] Even though this action was heavily boycotted by the Soviet Union, the United Nations decided to call upon different members of the council to bring an end to the hostilities demonstrated by North Korea.[3] The United Nations went in troops composed of fifteen nations to the Korean peninsula in an effort to stop the communist advance. While these troops were mainly composed of Americans, soldiers from Australia, Belgium, Canada, Colombia, Ethiopia, France, Greece, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, New Zealand, the Philippines, South Africa, Thailand, Turkey, and the United Kingdom were also sent.[4] These thousands of men were lead by General Douglas MacArthur, Commander of the United Nations forces.[5] The officials from the United States in Korea accentuated that this combined military force was only being carried out to prevent the conflict from spreading outside of the Korean peninsula.[6]
[1] “Teaching With Documents: The United States Enters the Korean Conflict”. National Archives. n.d. WEB. 22 November 2014. <http://www.archives.gov/education/lessons/korean-conflict/>
[2] “A State of Mind: North Korea and the Korean War: June 1950 UN Responds.” Public Broadcasting Service [PBS]. 11 September 2003. WEB. 22 November 2014. <http://www.pbs.org/wnet/wideangle/episodes/a-state-of-mind/north-korea-and-the-korean-war/june-1950-un-responds/1356/>
[3] “A State of Mind: North Korea and the Korean War: June 1950 UN Responds.” Public Broadcasting Service [PBS].
[4]“The Korean War, 1950-1953.” Office of the Historian. n.d. WEB> 22 November 2014. <https://history.state.gov/milestones/1945-1952/korean-war-2>
[5] “Teaching With Documents: The United States Enters the Korean Conflict”. National Archives.
[6] “The Korean War, 1950-1953.” Office of the Historian.
On June 25th, 1950 North Korean troops set out on an invasion aimed at several points along the 38th parallel on their way to the South Korean capital city, Seoul.[1] The United States was worried that they would lose Korea to communists and President Truman - after deciding that this impending war was not a matter for the United States Congress - took the matter to the United Nations Security Council.[2] Even though this action was heavily boycotted by the Soviet Union, the United Nations decided to call upon different members of the council to bring an end to the hostilities demonstrated by North Korea.[3] The United Nations went in troops composed of fifteen nations to the Korean peninsula in an effort to stop the communist advance. While these troops were mainly composed of Americans, soldiers from Australia, Belgium, Canada, Colombia, Ethiopia, France, Greece, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, New Zealand, the Philippines, South Africa, Thailand, Turkey, and the United Kingdom were also sent.[4] These thousands of men were lead by General Douglas MacArthur, Commander of the United Nations forces.[5] The officials from the United States in Korea accentuated that this combined military force was only being carried out to prevent the conflict from spreading outside of the Korean peninsula.[6]
[1] “Teaching With Documents: The United States Enters the Korean Conflict”. National Archives. n.d. WEB. 22 November 2014. <http://www.archives.gov/education/lessons/korean-conflict/>
[2] “A State of Mind: North Korea and the Korean War: June 1950 UN Responds.” Public Broadcasting Service [PBS]. 11 September 2003. WEB. 22 November 2014. <http://www.pbs.org/wnet/wideangle/episodes/a-state-of-mind/north-korea-and-the-korean-war/june-1950-un-responds/1356/>
[3] “A State of Mind: North Korea and the Korean War: June 1950 UN Responds.” Public Broadcasting Service [PBS].
[4]“The Korean War, 1950-1953.” Office of the Historian. n.d. WEB> 22 November 2014. <https://history.state.gov/milestones/1945-1952/korean-war-2>
[5] “Teaching With Documents: The United States Enters the Korean Conflict”. National Archives.
[6] “The Korean War, 1950-1953.” Office of the Historian.
Operation Chromite: U.S. defense of Pusan, Landing at Inchon
August 4th - September 19th, 1950
At the beginning of the Korean War, North Korea pushed the UN’s army almost out of the Korean peninsula entirely. The last of the UN’s army, now lead by General Douglas MacArthur, now had to hold its ground at the port of Pusan while they wait for reinforcement to arrive. To do this, they formed a 140-mile line of defense around the port, which became known as the “Pusan- Perimeter”[1]. The North Korean army launched many attacks on the perimeter, but was unable to break through, causing a stalemate.
September 13th – September 19th 1950
With the defensive perimeter barely holding its ground against the North Korea’s army, General MacArthur had to think of a way to gain a better foothold in Korea before the line broke, this lead to the formation of Operation Chromite. Operation Chromite was the landing of hundreds of UN troops, largely Marines, at the port city of Inchon. After weeks of planning and preparation, Operation Chromite was ready to go. With the support of hundreds of warships, hundreds of UN troops landed almost effortlessly took Inchon. But they didn’t stop there, they continued on to capture airbases in the area, and finally recaptured the capital of South Korea, Seoul.[2] This assault caught North Korea of guard and forced them to retreat away from the Pusan- Perimeter, giving the UN the ability to regroup and move forward. The North Korean army was never able to really recover after this defeat.
[1] Zabecki, David T. "Stand or Die - 1950 Defense of Korea's Pusan Perimeter." Historynet.com. Historynet.com, 01 May 2009. Web. <http%3A%2F%2Fwww.historynet.com%2Fstand-or-die-1950-defense-of-koreas-pusan-perimeter.htm>.
[2] "Operation Chromite." Military Fact Sheet. N.p., n.d. Web. 01 Dec. 2014. <http://www.nj.gov/military/korea/factsheets/chromite.html>.
August 4th - September 19th, 1950
At the beginning of the Korean War, North Korea pushed the UN’s army almost out of the Korean peninsula entirely. The last of the UN’s army, now lead by General Douglas MacArthur, now had to hold its ground at the port of Pusan while they wait for reinforcement to arrive. To do this, they formed a 140-mile line of defense around the port, which became known as the “Pusan- Perimeter”[1]. The North Korean army launched many attacks on the perimeter, but was unable to break through, causing a stalemate.
September 13th – September 19th 1950
With the defensive perimeter barely holding its ground against the North Korea’s army, General MacArthur had to think of a way to gain a better foothold in Korea before the line broke, this lead to the formation of Operation Chromite. Operation Chromite was the landing of hundreds of UN troops, largely Marines, at the port city of Inchon. After weeks of planning and preparation, Operation Chromite was ready to go. With the support of hundreds of warships, hundreds of UN troops landed almost effortlessly took Inchon. But they didn’t stop there, they continued on to capture airbases in the area, and finally recaptured the capital of South Korea, Seoul.[2] This assault caught North Korea of guard and forced them to retreat away from the Pusan- Perimeter, giving the UN the ability to regroup and move forward. The North Korean army was never able to really recover after this defeat.
[1] Zabecki, David T. "Stand or Die - 1950 Defense of Korea's Pusan Perimeter." Historynet.com. Historynet.com, 01 May 2009. Web. <http%3A%2F%2Fwww.historynet.com%2Fstand-or-die-1950-defense-of-koreas-pusan-perimeter.htm>.
[2] "Operation Chromite." Military Fact Sheet. N.p., n.d. Web. 01 Dec. 2014. <http://www.nj.gov/military/korea/factsheets/chromite.html>.
China Enters the War
November 25, 1950
By October of 1950, the United Nations fortune in the war had been great. They had the North Korean Army reeling, and were driving deep into North Korean property. However, as things began to look gravely dim for the North Koreans, a beam of light shined in the form of the Chinese People’s Volunteers. (CPV) The CPV moved through North Korea in an attempt to slow United Nation advances. When the two sides met near the Central Mountains and Yalu River of North Korea, the CPV not only slowed UN movement but halted it all together in a swift series of 4 attack movements.[1] It took all of two more advances by the CPV to completely overwhelm the United States Marines (fighting on the side of the UN). The United Nation’s forces were so hurt that that they had to evacuate by sea.[2] The CPV was eventually able to drive more UN forces even beyond Seoul until they finally were halted. As a result of these dominating offenses, China became the main military and political enemy of the UN. At this point, it became clear that this war would be a nearly impossible one for either side to win. Peace talks began at this point but the war continued throughout those years still.
[1] "China Intervenes in the Korean War." Overview of the Chinese Intervention. N.p., n.d. Web. 01 Dec. 2014.
[2] Enter the Korean War: History Revisited* Hao Yufan and Zhai Zhihai(n.d.): n. pag. Web.
November 25, 1950
By October of 1950, the United Nations fortune in the war had been great. They had the North Korean Army reeling, and were driving deep into North Korean property. However, as things began to look gravely dim for the North Koreans, a beam of light shined in the form of the Chinese People’s Volunteers. (CPV) The CPV moved through North Korea in an attempt to slow United Nation advances. When the two sides met near the Central Mountains and Yalu River of North Korea, the CPV not only slowed UN movement but halted it all together in a swift series of 4 attack movements.[1] It took all of two more advances by the CPV to completely overwhelm the United States Marines (fighting on the side of the UN). The United Nation’s forces were so hurt that that they had to evacuate by sea.[2] The CPV was eventually able to drive more UN forces even beyond Seoul until they finally were halted. As a result of these dominating offenses, China became the main military and political enemy of the UN. At this point, it became clear that this war would be a nearly impossible one for either side to win. Peace talks began at this point but the war continued throughout those years still.
[1] "China Intervenes in the Korean War." Overview of the Chinese Intervention. N.p., n.d. Web. 01 Dec. 2014.
[2] Enter the Korean War: History Revisited* Hao Yufan and Zhai Zhihai(n.d.): n. pag. Web.
Ridgway launches Operation Pile driver on The Iron Triangle
General Matthew Ridgway was put into place after General MacArthur was dismissed for insubordination. The new leader Ridgway began to look at how much the Chinese offensive pushed them back and decided a counteroffensive would be the best strategy. Those offensives were called the first and second spring offensives. Ridgway led the counteroffensive and pushed the Korean and Chinese soldiers up past the 38th parallel. They held this line for about three days before the peace talks were beginning to be discussed. The iron triangle is where three villages are Charon, Kuma and Pyongyang[1]. They all have railways that were able to send supplies to and from china and Russia. This is why they were a strategic point to take for the UN’s army. If the UN gained control of this point they could wait out the enemy until they ran out of supplies. This made it very difficult to obtain supplies to help the North Korean army. In June 14 1951 the UN succeeded in getting the base of the Iron Triangle that was 12 miles ahead of the 38th parallel.[2]
On June 23rd 1951 the enemy was ready to go to peace talks.
[1] O’Neill, Robert (1985). Australia in the Korean War 1950–53. Volume II: Combat Operations. Canberra: Australian War Memorial. ISBN 0-642-04330-2.
[2] "Korean War (34)." Pacificparatrooper. N.p., n.d. Web. 21 Nov. 2014.
General Matthew Ridgway was put into place after General MacArthur was dismissed for insubordination. The new leader Ridgway began to look at how much the Chinese offensive pushed them back and decided a counteroffensive would be the best strategy. Those offensives were called the first and second spring offensives. Ridgway led the counteroffensive and pushed the Korean and Chinese soldiers up past the 38th parallel. They held this line for about three days before the peace talks were beginning to be discussed. The iron triangle is where three villages are Charon, Kuma and Pyongyang[1]. They all have railways that were able to send supplies to and from china and Russia. This is why they were a strategic point to take for the UN’s army. If the UN gained control of this point they could wait out the enemy until they ran out of supplies. This made it very difficult to obtain supplies to help the North Korean army. In June 14 1951 the UN succeeded in getting the base of the Iron Triangle that was 12 miles ahead of the 38th parallel.[2]
On June 23rd 1951 the enemy was ready to go to peace talks.
[1] O’Neill, Robert (1985). Australia in the Korean War 1950–53. Volume II: Combat Operations. Canberra: Australian War Memorial. ISBN 0-642-04330-2.
[2] "Korean War (34)." Pacificparatrooper. N.p., n.d. Web. 21 Nov. 2014.
Truman and MacArthur Meeting; MacArthur relieved of command.
Truman and MacArthur had begun to have conflicting ideas of what the proper course of action in Korea was beginning in October 1950. In October of 1950 Truman had expressed his concern that the Chinese would be angered and begin to enter the war if the UN and U.S. troops pushed too far into North Korea. MacArthur assured President Truman that the chances of that happening was small and not to be worried about it. Little did MacArthur know in November and December of 1950 the Chinese would send hundreds of thousands of troops and push the UN and US troops back into South Korea. As a result of this MacArthur wanted to send a bombing raid into china and President Truman denied his request fearing an expanding war. This sparked the Argument that became public between President Truman and General MacArthur.[1] It was April 1951 when Truman Fired General MacArthur and Replaced him with General Ridgway accusing MacArthur of Insubordination.[2] The Final straw MacArthur had pulled was when in March 24 1951, “he issued unilaterally a surrender ultimatum to the Communist Chinese commander after having just been informed by Washington that the State Department was beginning diplomatic overtures that could lead to truce negotiations. “.[3]
[1] James, D. Clayton. "Douglas MacArthur." Encyclopedia Britannica Online. Encyclopedia Britannica, n.d. Web. 20 Nov. 2014.
[2] "Truman Relieves MacArthur of Duties in Korea." History.com. A&E Television Networks, n.d. Web. 20 Nov. 2014.
[3] USAFA Harmon Memorial Lecture #24 (n.d.): n. pag. Web.
Truman and MacArthur had begun to have conflicting ideas of what the proper course of action in Korea was beginning in October 1950. In October of 1950 Truman had expressed his concern that the Chinese would be angered and begin to enter the war if the UN and U.S. troops pushed too far into North Korea. MacArthur assured President Truman that the chances of that happening was small and not to be worried about it. Little did MacArthur know in November and December of 1950 the Chinese would send hundreds of thousands of troops and push the UN and US troops back into South Korea. As a result of this MacArthur wanted to send a bombing raid into china and President Truman denied his request fearing an expanding war. This sparked the Argument that became public between President Truman and General MacArthur.[1] It was April 1951 when Truman Fired General MacArthur and Replaced him with General Ridgway accusing MacArthur of Insubordination.[2] The Final straw MacArthur had pulled was when in March 24 1951, “he issued unilaterally a surrender ultimatum to the Communist Chinese commander after having just been informed by Washington that the State Department was beginning diplomatic overtures that could lead to truce negotiations. “.[3]
[1] James, D. Clayton. "Douglas MacArthur." Encyclopedia Britannica Online. Encyclopedia Britannica, n.d. Web. 20 Nov. 2014.
[2] "Truman Relieves MacArthur of Duties in Korea." History.com. A&E Television Networks, n.d. Web. 20 Nov. 2014.
[3] USAFA Harmon Memorial Lecture #24 (n.d.): n. pag. Web.
Racial Integration of Combat Units
July 26, 1948
The Korean War was a major step in the formation of units, for it was the first war to have integrated combat units. It was the first war that was fought after President Harry Truman passed the Executive Order 9981 in July of 1948. The Executive order abolished racial discrimination in the military. The Executive Order states:
“It is hereby declared to be the policy of the President that there shall be equality of treatment and opportunity for all persons in the armed services without regard to race, color, religion or natural origin. This policy shall be put into effect as rapidly as possible, having due regard to the time required to effectuate any necessary changes without impairing efficiency or morale.” [1]
At the beginning of the Korean War, many units were still segregated by race and skin color. The white combat units served on the front lines and the while black combat units served as reserve units. As the war continued, the number of casualties rose. This made it so that the front line units needed reinforcements, which for a while came from other white units, but soon were coming from the black reserve units. This started the integration process. Soon many units consisted of both black and white men fighting side by side. [2]
[1] Truman, Harry. "Truman Library - Executive Order 9981." Truman Library - Executive Order 9981. Truman Library, n.d. Web. 01 Dec. 2014.
[2] "Integrating the Armed Forces." Digital History. Digital History, n.d. Web. 01 Dec. 2014. <http://www.digitalhistory.uh.edu/topic_display.cfm?tcid=100>.
July 26, 1948
The Korean War was a major step in the formation of units, for it was the first war to have integrated combat units. It was the first war that was fought after President Harry Truman passed the Executive Order 9981 in July of 1948. The Executive order abolished racial discrimination in the military. The Executive Order states:
“It is hereby declared to be the policy of the President that there shall be equality of treatment and opportunity for all persons in the armed services without regard to race, color, religion or natural origin. This policy shall be put into effect as rapidly as possible, having due regard to the time required to effectuate any necessary changes without impairing efficiency or morale.” [1]
At the beginning of the Korean War, many units were still segregated by race and skin color. The white combat units served on the front lines and the while black combat units served as reserve units. As the war continued, the number of casualties rose. This made it so that the front line units needed reinforcements, which for a while came from other white units, but soon were coming from the black reserve units. This started the integration process. Soon many units consisted of both black and white men fighting side by side. [2]
[1] Truman, Harry. "Truman Library - Executive Order 9981." Truman Library - Executive Order 9981. Truman Library, n.d. Web. 01 Dec. 2014.
[2] "Integrating the Armed Forces." Digital History. Digital History, n.d. Web. 01 Dec. 2014. <http://www.digitalhistory.uh.edu/topic_display.cfm?tcid=100>.
Eisenhower is Elected
November 4, 1952.
After engaging in 2 years of war with foreign countries in Asia, President Harry Truman’s approval ratings were low. So low, in fact, that no other president in the history of the United States had ever been received that poorly after one term. When Truman’s approval rating of 22%,[1] Arkansas senator William Fulbright called for Truman to resign but Truman did not. Instead, Truman finished out his term and then focused on trying to support a new candidate, Dwight Eisenhower. Truman supported Eisenhower until he announced himself to be republican. At that point, the democratic Truman ended his support and instead focused on making Adlai Stevenson, the democratic leader, the next president. However despite Stevenson and Truman’s best efforts, Eisenhower won the presidential race by a landslide, 442 votes to 86.[2] The choice of Eisenhower for president was largely buoyed on basically one major idea. Eisenhower vowed to visit Korea personally, to try to attain peace in a practical way that all of the American people agree on.[3] A former king of war hero, he was confident in his abilities in war and negotiation and he had the American people’s backing. He vowed to right the past wrongs done by Truman and to bring peace back.
[1] "Presidential Approval for President Truman." Presidential Approval for President Truman. N.p., n.d. Web. 01 Dec. 2014.
[2] "1952 Presidential Election." 1952 Presidential Election. N.p., n.d. Web. 01 Dec. 2014.
November 4, 1952.
After engaging in 2 years of war with foreign countries in Asia, President Harry Truman’s approval ratings were low. So low, in fact, that no other president in the history of the United States had ever been received that poorly after one term. When Truman’s approval rating of 22%,[1] Arkansas senator William Fulbright called for Truman to resign but Truman did not. Instead, Truman finished out his term and then focused on trying to support a new candidate, Dwight Eisenhower. Truman supported Eisenhower until he announced himself to be republican. At that point, the democratic Truman ended his support and instead focused on making Adlai Stevenson, the democratic leader, the next president. However despite Stevenson and Truman’s best efforts, Eisenhower won the presidential race by a landslide, 442 votes to 86.[2] The choice of Eisenhower for president was largely buoyed on basically one major idea. Eisenhower vowed to visit Korea personally, to try to attain peace in a practical way that all of the American people agree on.[3] A former king of war hero, he was confident in his abilities in war and negotiation and he had the American people’s backing. He vowed to right the past wrongs done by Truman and to bring peace back.
[1] "Presidential Approval for President Truman." Presidential Approval for President Truman. N.p., n.d. Web. 01 Dec. 2014.
[2] "1952 Presidential Election." 1952 Presidential Election. N.p., n.d. Web. 01 Dec. 2014.
U.S air power in Korea; U.S. air attacks on Pyongyang
Before the Korean War the original strategy used by the USAF (United States Air Force) was to destroy the industrial centers in the targeted country but since North Korea was being mainly supported by the Russians and Chinese this would do no major damage to the supply lanes. As a result the US used the air force to destroy the Chinese and Russian planes that were attempting to harm our ground troops and stopping them from bringing in air support and supplies. An example of this was in 1952 US planes targeted a irrigation dam and once destroyed it flooded the country.1 Never before this war had helicopters began to be used so much. They carried supplies and troops and provided medical evacuations to wounded troops. Another first in the use of Air force was the dropping of supplies such as food water and ammunition by parachutes which would float down to the troops in need. A major success by the air force was the attack on Pyongyang on July 11 1952[2]
[1] "The Skies of Korea:An Air War for a New Era." Korean War 60th Anniversary. N.p., n.d. Web.
[2] "U.S. War on North Korea Never Ended." U.S. War on North Korea Never Ended. N.p., n.d. Web. 22 Nov. 2014.
Before the Korean War the original strategy used by the USAF (United States Air Force) was to destroy the industrial centers in the targeted country but since North Korea was being mainly supported by the Russians and Chinese this would do no major damage to the supply lanes. As a result the US used the air force to destroy the Chinese and Russian planes that were attempting to harm our ground troops and stopping them from bringing in air support and supplies. An example of this was in 1952 US planes targeted a irrigation dam and once destroyed it flooded the country.1 Never before this war had helicopters began to be used so much. They carried supplies and troops and provided medical evacuations to wounded troops. Another first in the use of Air force was the dropping of supplies such as food water and ammunition by parachutes which would float down to the troops in need. A major success by the air force was the attack on Pyongyang on July 11 1952[2]
[1] "The Skies of Korea:An Air War for a New Era." Korean War 60th Anniversary. N.p., n.d. Web.
[2] "U.S. War on North Korea Never Ended." U.S. War on North Korea Never Ended. N.p., n.d. Web. 22 Nov. 2014.
Battle of Pork Chop Hill
March- July 1953
While the Korean War continued, the U.S. and Chinese armies started to dig in, and create a solid line of defense. This defensive line resulted into the 38 Parallel. Both sides knew that it would be near impossible to break through this line, so they started to build up their manpower. By 1952, the Chinese and North Koreans had 890,000 troops available while the UN and US had 700,000 men.[1] During this stalemate, many battles started to have many casualties and many of the objectives that would be taken by one army, would just be taken by the other shortly after. One of these mini campaigns was on Hill 255, which became known as Pork Chop Hill due to how it looked on a map. This campaign consisted of two sets of battles. The first battle was in April of 1953 when the two sides were in the midst of armistice talks. The Chinese wished to show that they were still willing to fight, even with the peace talks happening. This battle resulted in the US holding the hill and had about 1300 casualties, while the Chinese had 5,500 casualties.[2] This battle lasted a mere few hours compared to the second one that lasted a few days. After a few weeks of rebuilding the hill, the Chinese attacked again and were able to force the US to retreat from the hill.
[1] "The Battle of Pork Chop Hill April 16, 1953." Welcome to S.O.G. Special Operations Group, 14 Apr. 2012. Web. 01 Dec. 2014. <http://norbay.com/blog/04-14-2012/battle-pork-chop-hill-april-16-1953>.
[2] "Korean War: Battle on Pork Chop Hill." History Net Where History Comes Alive World US History Online Korean War Battle on Pork Chop Hill Comments. Historynet.com, 16 June 2006. Web. 01 Dec. 2014. <http://www.historynet.com/korean-war-battle-on-pork-chop-hill.htm>.
March- July 1953
While the Korean War continued, the U.S. and Chinese armies started to dig in, and create a solid line of defense. This defensive line resulted into the 38 Parallel. Both sides knew that it would be near impossible to break through this line, so they started to build up their manpower. By 1952, the Chinese and North Koreans had 890,000 troops available while the UN and US had 700,000 men.[1] During this stalemate, many battles started to have many casualties and many of the objectives that would be taken by one army, would just be taken by the other shortly after. One of these mini campaigns was on Hill 255, which became known as Pork Chop Hill due to how it looked on a map. This campaign consisted of two sets of battles. The first battle was in April of 1953 when the two sides were in the midst of armistice talks. The Chinese wished to show that they were still willing to fight, even with the peace talks happening. This battle resulted in the US holding the hill and had about 1300 casualties, while the Chinese had 5,500 casualties.[2] This battle lasted a mere few hours compared to the second one that lasted a few days. After a few weeks of rebuilding the hill, the Chinese attacked again and were able to force the US to retreat from the hill.
[1] "The Battle of Pork Chop Hill April 16, 1953." Welcome to S.O.G. Special Operations Group, 14 Apr. 2012. Web. 01 Dec. 2014. <http://norbay.com/blog/04-14-2012/battle-pork-chop-hill-april-16-1953>.
[2] "Korean War: Battle on Pork Chop Hill." History Net Where History Comes Alive World US History Online Korean War Battle on Pork Chop Hill Comments. Historynet.com, 16 June 2006. Web. 01 Dec. 2014. <http://www.historynet.com/korean-war-battle-on-pork-chop-hill.htm>.
Peace Talks at Panmunjom
In December 1950, the United States abandoned its goals toward victory as it saw no prospect of complete victory once China intervened in the war.1 China took six months more to come to the same conclusion. After the defeat of the communist fifth phase offensive in mid-1950, it too decided the war would only end with a negotiated peace. Negotiations opened at Kaesong on 10 July 1951 and were later moved to Panmunjom.2 The issues to be settled were where the ceasefire line – in effect the new border – would be, what would be the long-term arrangements to maintain the ceasefire, the exchange of prisoners of war, and arrangements for reaching a more detailed settlement of the conflict.3 During the remaining two years of the war there was fighting along the now reasonably static front as both sides wished to influence the negotiations by winning battles. The pattern of negotiating while fighting, together with some periods when negotiations were halted in protest at the actions of the other side, continued to the very end of the war.4
1 Australian government. Ceasefire at Panmunjom, 27 July 1953. 2014. 13 11 2014.
2 Australian government. Ceasefire at Panmunjom,
3 Jr., Donald W. Boose. Panmunjom Peace Talks: Korean War. n.d. 21 november 2014.
4 Jr., Donald W. Boose. Panmunjom Peace Talks: Korean War.
In December 1950, the United States abandoned its goals toward victory as it saw no prospect of complete victory once China intervened in the war.1 China took six months more to come to the same conclusion. After the defeat of the communist fifth phase offensive in mid-1950, it too decided the war would only end with a negotiated peace. Negotiations opened at Kaesong on 10 July 1951 and were later moved to Panmunjom.2 The issues to be settled were where the ceasefire line – in effect the new border – would be, what would be the long-term arrangements to maintain the ceasefire, the exchange of prisoners of war, and arrangements for reaching a more detailed settlement of the conflict.3 During the remaining two years of the war there was fighting along the now reasonably static front as both sides wished to influence the negotiations by winning battles. The pattern of negotiating while fighting, together with some periods when negotiations were halted in protest at the actions of the other side, continued to the very end of the war.4
1 Australian government. Ceasefire at Panmunjom, 27 July 1953. 2014. 13 11 2014.
2 Australian government. Ceasefire at Panmunjom,
3 Jr., Donald W. Boose. Panmunjom Peace Talks: Korean War. n.d. 21 november 2014.
4 Jr., Donald W. Boose. Panmunjom Peace Talks: Korean War.
Operation Big Switch and Little Switch
April 20th,1953 - May 3rd, 1953
Operation Little Switch initiated the exchange of sick and wounded Prisoners of War. The exchange was agreed to during the truce talks at Panmunjom on April 11.1 The Communist side repatriated 684 U.N. sick and wounded troops, while the U.N. Command returned 1,030 Chinese and 5,194 Koreans, together with 446 civilian internees.2 The exchange was marked by strong disagreement and controversy. Returning Communist prisoners tried to embarrass their captors by rejecting rations and clothing issued to them, while sensational reports appeared in the Western press alleging that numbers of sick and wounded Prisoners of War were still being held by the Communists in spite of the exchange agreements. These ishues extended the war for 2 extra years. From August 5 to December 23, 1953 Operation Big Switch was the final exchange of prisoners of war by both sides, and, like Little Switch, was marked by controversy over voluntary repatriation and, later, by allegations of brainwashing and torture of U.N. s Prisoners of War by the Communists. The U.N. returned 75,823 Prisoners of War (70,183 Koreans, 5,640 Chinese); the Communists repatriated 12,773 U.N. Prisoners of War (7,862 Koreans, 3,597 Americans, 946 British). The vast majority of the 22,600 enemy non-repatriates were Chinese, most of them former Chinese Nationalist veterans. Only 137 Chinese agreed to return to their homeland before the expiration of the ninety-day period stipulated in the armistice agreement. Only 357 U.N. prisoners indicated a desire to remain with the Communists (333 Koreans, 23 Americans, one Briton), and of these, two Americans and eight Koreans chose to return within the allotted time for the changing of one’s mind. The U.N. released all remaining former Prisoners of War thereafter, the Communists following suit a few days later.3
1Grey, Jeffrey. Operation Big Switch and Little Switch. n.d. web page. 17 11 2014.
2Grey, Jeffrey. Operation Big Switch and Little Switch. n.d. web page.
3Laurie, Clayton D. Operations BIG SWITCH/ LITTLE SWITCH: Korean War. 2011. 21 november 2014.
April 20th,1953 - May 3rd, 1953
Operation Little Switch initiated the exchange of sick and wounded Prisoners of War. The exchange was agreed to during the truce talks at Panmunjom on April 11.1 The Communist side repatriated 684 U.N. sick and wounded troops, while the U.N. Command returned 1,030 Chinese and 5,194 Koreans, together with 446 civilian internees.2 The exchange was marked by strong disagreement and controversy. Returning Communist prisoners tried to embarrass their captors by rejecting rations and clothing issued to them, while sensational reports appeared in the Western press alleging that numbers of sick and wounded Prisoners of War were still being held by the Communists in spite of the exchange agreements. These ishues extended the war for 2 extra years. From August 5 to December 23, 1953 Operation Big Switch was the final exchange of prisoners of war by both sides, and, like Little Switch, was marked by controversy over voluntary repatriation and, later, by allegations of brainwashing and torture of U.N. s Prisoners of War by the Communists. The U.N. returned 75,823 Prisoners of War (70,183 Koreans, 5,640 Chinese); the Communists repatriated 12,773 U.N. Prisoners of War (7,862 Koreans, 3,597 Americans, 946 British). The vast majority of the 22,600 enemy non-repatriates were Chinese, most of them former Chinese Nationalist veterans. Only 137 Chinese agreed to return to their homeland before the expiration of the ninety-day period stipulated in the armistice agreement. Only 357 U.N. prisoners indicated a desire to remain with the Communists (333 Koreans, 23 Americans, one Briton), and of these, two Americans and eight Koreans chose to return within the allotted time for the changing of one’s mind. The U.N. released all remaining former Prisoners of War thereafter, the Communists following suit a few days later.3
1Grey, Jeffrey. Operation Big Switch and Little Switch. n.d. web page. 17 11 2014.
2Grey, Jeffrey. Operation Big Switch and Little Switch. n.d. web page.
3Laurie, Clayton D. Operations BIG SWITCH/ LITTLE SWITCH: Korean War. 2011. 21 november 2014.
G.I. Babies
In 1953, the presence of mixed race G.I. babies disrupted existing conceptions of Korea's ‘national image’. The mixed race G.I. baby is defined as, “a population regarded and understood to have been produced through the liaisons between South Korean women and American military personnel... additionally, those without Korean fathers (which is the vast majority) have historically been denied citizenship rights because of patriarchal constructions of nationality”[i]However, despite the relative infancy of these pure blooded ideologies, the Korean government made its stance on mixed race GI babies known; they weren't considered Korean.[ii] The government had no intention of reimagining a national identity that they viewed as vital to legitimizing their regime over North Korea and the political goal of reunification. Keeping this image was important to the Korean government because of the ideology that the Korean race was the best and they didn’t want their bloodline to be mixed with any other nationality. One example of this is a report from the tyrant of korea exclaiming that he wanted the Korean-white children removed "even if we have to drop them in the Pacific Ocean.[iii] From this quote, we can gather that the Korean government was hostile towards the G.I. babies that were appearing in Korea.
1Doolan, Yuri W. Being Amerasian in South Korea: Purebloodness, Multiculturalism, and Living . Ohio: The Ohio State University, 2012.
2Doolan, Yuri W. Being Amerasian in South Korea: Purebloodness, Multiculturalism, and Living . Ohio: The Ohio State University, 2012.
http://koreanwarbaby.blogspot.com/2010/04/harry-holt-by-susan-soon-keum-cox.html
In 1953, the presence of mixed race G.I. babies disrupted existing conceptions of Korea's ‘national image’. The mixed race G.I. baby is defined as, “a population regarded and understood to have been produced through the liaisons between South Korean women and American military personnel... additionally, those without Korean fathers (which is the vast majority) have historically been denied citizenship rights because of patriarchal constructions of nationality”[i]However, despite the relative infancy of these pure blooded ideologies, the Korean government made its stance on mixed race GI babies known; they weren't considered Korean.[ii] The government had no intention of reimagining a national identity that they viewed as vital to legitimizing their regime over North Korea and the political goal of reunification. Keeping this image was important to the Korean government because of the ideology that the Korean race was the best and they didn’t want their bloodline to be mixed with any other nationality. One example of this is a report from the tyrant of korea exclaiming that he wanted the Korean-white children removed "even if we have to drop them in the Pacific Ocean.[iii] From this quote, we can gather that the Korean government was hostile towards the G.I. babies that were appearing in Korea.
1Doolan, Yuri W. Being Amerasian in South Korea: Purebloodness, Multiculturalism, and Living . Ohio: The Ohio State University, 2012.
2Doolan, Yuri W. Being Amerasian in South Korea: Purebloodness, Multiculturalism, and Living . Ohio: The Ohio State University, 2012.
http://koreanwarbaby.blogspot.com/2010/04/harry-holt-by-susan-soon-keum-cox.html