Operation Rolling Thunder Overview and Effects

Questions and Answers

What was Operation Rolling Thunder?

Sustained bombing campaign against North Vietnam.

What was the effect of Operation Rolling Thunder?

643,000 tons of bombs were dropped, nearly 900 US aircraft lost, and the estimated damage was $300 million.

Why did Operation Rolling Thunder fail?

It failed to persuade the North Vietnamese and did not destroy their ability to prosecute their war in South Vietnam.

How did Operation Rolling Thunder start?

It began on March 2, 1965, partly in response to a Viet Cong attack on a U.S. air base at Pleiku. Signup and view all the answers

What was the purpose of Operation Rolling Thunder?

To demonstrate America's near total air power and to undermine the North Vietnamese government's capacity. Signup and view all the answers

How many people died during Operation Rolling Thunder?

90,000 victims, including 72,000 civilians. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Operation Rolling Thunder Overview

A sustained bombing campaign against North Vietnam, initiated on March 2, 1965.
Aimed to respond to the Viet Cong attack on a U.S. air base at Pleiku.

Effects of Operation Rolling Thunder

Approximately 643,000 tons of bombs dropped over the course of the campaign.
Resulted in the loss of nearly 900 U.S. aircraft and 745 crewmen captured or killed.
Estimated damage to North Vietnam amounted to $370 million, affecting infrastructure and civilian life.
In total, around 90,000 casualties were reported, including 72,000 civilians.

Failure of Operation Rolling Thunder

Intended as a campaign of graduated pressure to demonstrate U.S. resolve, it did not achieve its goals.
North Vietnamese capability to continue their war efforts in South Vietnam remained largely intact.
Operation failed to dishearten the North Vietnamese populace or weaken the government’s authority.

Purpose of Operation Rolling Thunder

Demonstrated America's vast air power, aimed at undermining North Vietnam’s governance and morale.
Ultimately deemed unsuccessful in achieving its strategic objectives.

Description

This quiz covers the key aspects of Operation Rolling Thunder, including its initiation, objectives, and consequences during the Vietnam War. Explore the extensive bombing campaign's impact on both the U.S. military and North Vietnam, as well as its ultimate failure to achieve strategic goals. Test your knowledge and understanding of this pivotal moment in history.