The Korean War began in 1950 when North Korea invaded South Korea, testing Truman's policy of containment against the spread of communism. The United Nations authorized troops to defend South Korea led by General MacArthur. MacArthur's surprise attack at Inchon was a turning point that forced North Korean retreat. However, China later entered the war on North Korea's side, pushing UN forces back until a ceasefire in 1953 left the border along the 38th parallel. The Vietnam War began as resistance to French colonial rule, with the US backing France until their defeat in 1954. This divided Vietnam along the 17th parallel, with communist North Vietnam led by Ho Chi Minh and US-backed South Vietnam led by Diem. However, the

1. Korean and Vietnam War