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New Zealand & the Vietnam War

New Zealand & the Vietnam War. 1964 - 1972. Starter Activity. Read the source. With a partner, discuss: *Who is the source intended for? *Who is it about? *Explain how this source shows a cause-effect relationship.

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New Zealand & the Vietnam War

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  1. New Zealand & the Vietnam War 1964 - 1972

  2. Starter Activity Read the source. With a partner, discuss: *Who is the source intended for? *Who is it about? *Explain how this source shows a cause-effect relationship. *How useful is this source for evaluating the effects of a war on human life? *What other ideas does the source convey?

  3. New Zealanders in the Vietnam War • Around 3500 NZers served in Vietnam between 1964 and 1972 • 37 were killed and 187 were wounded • The first war in which NZ did not fight with its traditional ally, Britain • Its involvement in the war was highly controversial, attracting protest and condemnation Question: explain the significance of NZ fighting a war alongside the US while Britain didn’t participate.

  4. PM Cautious to Join • PM K.J. Holyoake is cautious to get involved because of doubts about the effectiveness of external intervention in Vietnam (a Vietnam ‘quagmire’) and fears of a wider war, possibly with China • However, in 1962 he sends a civilian surgical team • 1964 he sends 25 Army engineers (non-combatants) who work on road and bridge-building projects

  5. Pressure from the US • NZ comes under pressure from the US to provide combat assistance as they escalate their own military involvement • While Australia sends a battalion soon after, Wellington reluctantly but eventually sends a ‘token’ contribution of 120 troops • National interests were to counter communism in SE Asia as part of national security policy • Holyoake keeps NZ’s involvement at a minimum but meets allies’ expectations Question: ANZUS alliance: what would be the effect if NZ did not support the US (and Australia)?

  6. ANZACs & Vietnamization • In 1968, NZ increases infantry to Vietnam that is integrated with Australia • Members of RNZN and RNZAF sent to VN also • However, unlike the US and Australia, NZ does not have conscription • When ‘Vietnamization’ policy comes into effect, NZ contributes army training teams while at the same time combat forces are gradually withdrawn

  7. Impact of the War in NZ • Despite criticism at home, National Party government does not change its policy of ANZUS alliance • Anti-war movement grows, thousands march in protest all over NZ • Involvement in VN brings polarisation of public opinion: national security alliances vs anti-war sentiment • Veterans must adjust to physical & psychological problems (recognition, exposure to Agent Orange, PTSD) Question: What role should NZ play in the world? Independent in its foreign policy, or ally itself with other Western powers for national security?

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