Australia In The Vietnam War Era Revision
Australian support for South Vietnam in the early 1960s was in keeping with the policies of other nations to stem the spread of communism in Europe and Asia. What more do you know about the degree of Australia`s involvement in the war? Test yourself by taking the quiz below. All the best!
Questions and Answers
- 1.
Which decade did the Vietnam War begin?
- A.
1950's
- B.
1960's
- C.
1970's
Correct Answer
B. 1960'sExplanation
The Vietnam War began in the 1960's. This conflict started in 1955 and lasted until 1975, but the majority of the major military operations and escalation occurred in the 1960's. The United States became heavily involved in the war during this decade, sending troops and increasing its military presence in Vietnam. The 1960's were a crucial period in the Vietnam War, marked by significant events such as the Gulf of Tonkin incident and the Tet Offensive.Rate this question:
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- 2.
Which Australian PM got Australia involved in the Vietnam War?
- A.
Robert Menzies
- B.
Harold Holt
- C.
Gough Whitlam
Correct Answer
A. Robert MenziesExplanation
Robert Menzies is the correct answer because he was the Australian Prime Minister who made the decision to involve Australia in the Vietnam War. Menzies was in office from 1949 to 1966 and during his tenure, he aligned Australia closely with the United States and supported their intervention in Vietnam. He believed that it was important for Australia to support its allies and prevent the spread of communism in the region. Menzies sent Australian troops to Vietnam in 1965, marking Australia's direct involvement in the war.Rate this question:
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- 3.
What slogan was used by the Liberal government to make people believe that communists were everywhere?
- A.
"Reds in the back shed"
- B.
"Reds overfed"
- C.
"Reds under the bed"
Correct Answer
C. "Reds under the bed"Explanation
The slogan "Reds under the bed" was used by the Liberal government to create a sense of fear and paranoia among the people, making them believe that communists were hiding and infiltrating every aspect of society. This slogan aimed to justify the government's anti-communist policies and actions, portraying communism as a pervasive threat that needed to be rooted out and eliminated.Rate this question:
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- 4.
What is guerilla warfare?
- A.
Using surprise to harrass the enemy then retreating
- B.
Using massive force to overcome the enemy
- C.
Using gorillas to defeat the enemy
Correct Answer
A. Using surprise to harrass the enemy then retreatingExplanation
Guerilla warfare is a tactic that involves utilizing surprise attacks to harass the enemy and then quickly retreating. This strategy aims to disrupt the enemy's operations and morale while minimizing casualties and conserving resources. By employing hit-and-run tactics, guerilla fighters can effectively target and weaken larger, more conventional forces. This approach is often utilized by smaller, less equipped groups or insurgent movements against larger and more powerful adversaries.Rate this question:
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- 5.
The Korean War occured AFTER the Vietnam War
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
B. FalseExplanation
The given statement is false. The Korean War actually occurred before the Vietnam War. The Korean War took place from 1950 to 1953, while the Vietnam War occurred from 1955 to 1975. Therefore, the Korean War happened before the Vietnam War.Rate this question:
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- 6.
Which American president first coined the term 'domino theory'?
- A.
Ronald Regan
- B.
Dwight Eisenhower
- C.
Lyndon Baines Johnson
Correct Answer
B. Dwight EisenhowerExplanation
Dwight Eisenhower is the correct answer because he was the American president who first coined the term "domino theory." The domino theory was a Cold War foreign policy concept that suggested that if one country in a region fell to communism, the surrounding countries would also fall like a row of dominoes. Eisenhower used this term to justify U.S. involvement in the Vietnam War and to support the containment policy against communism.Rate this question:
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- 7.
What year did Australia become part of SEATO?
- A.
1951
- B.
1954
- C.
1964
Correct Answer
B. 1954Explanation
In 1954, Australia became part of SEATO. SEATO, which stands for Southeast Asia Treaty Organization, was established in 1954 as a collective defense agreement between several countries in Southeast Asia and the United States. Australia joined SEATO as a way to strengthen its alliances and security partnerships in the region, particularly in response to the growing threat of communism during the Cold War. By becoming part of SEATO, Australia demonstrated its commitment to regional security and its willingness to work with other countries to counter the spread of communism in Southeast Asia.Rate this question:
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- 8.
When did Australia sign the ANZUS treaty?
- A.
1951
- B.
1954
- C.
1976
Correct Answer
A. 1951Explanation
Australia signed the ANZUS treaty in 1951. This treaty is a defense pact between Australia, New Zealand, and the United States, aimed at promoting security and cooperation in the Pacific region. It was signed during the early years of the Cold War, when the threat of communism was increasing. The treaty solidified the alliance between these three countries and established a commitment to mutual defense and consultation in the event of an armed attack in the Pacific.Rate this question:
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- 9.
Many Australians, especially Menzies, believed in the Domino Theory. It was the belief that if South VIetnam fell, other countries around it would also, and eventually Australia. What countries might fall first?
- A.
The U.S, U.K, Spain, France and Denmark
- B.
New Zealand, Samoa, Fiji and Kirabati
- C.
Malaysia, Cambodia, Indonesia and India
Correct Answer
C. Malaysia, Cambodia, Indonesia and IndiaExplanation
The countries that might fall first according to the Domino Theory are Malaysia, Cambodia, Indonesia, and India. This theory suggests that if South Vietnam were to fall, it would lead to a chain reaction where neighboring countries would also fall to communism. These countries are geographically close to Vietnam and were seen as potential targets for communist expansion during the time period.Rate this question:
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- 10.
The idea of forward defence, pushed strongly by Menzies and his Liberal government, meant that......
- A.
We must set up a defence of Australia and wait for the communists to attack
- B.
Australia needed to be on the front foot, 'better to fight them over there than here!'
- C.
South Vietnam should be bombed
Correct Answer
B. Australia needed to be on the front foot, 'better to fight them over there than here!'Explanation
The correct answer suggests that the idea of forward defence, advocated by Menzies and his Liberal government, was to proactively engage in military actions overseas in order to prevent any potential attacks on Australian soil. This approach aimed to keep the enemy away from Australia and fight them in their own territory, rather than waiting for them to attack and defending Australia on home ground. This strategy was believed to be more effective and safer for the country.Rate this question:
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- 11.
This image of Kim Phuc, running terrified after a napalm attack in 1972, is a secondary source..
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
B. FalseExplanation
This image of Kim Phuc running terrified after a napalm attack in 1972 cannot be considered a secondary source. A secondary source is typically an analysis or interpretation of primary sources, such as books, articles, or documentaries. In this case, the image itself is a primary source as it directly captures the event and is not a representation or analysis of it. Therefore, the correct answer is false.Rate this question:
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- 12.
Which of the following is Australia's response to the threat of communism IN AUSTRALIA?
- A.
ANZUS and SEATO
- B.
The Communist Party Dissolution Bill, Petrov Affair (Royal Commission) and government censorship (e.g. Power without Glory by Frank Hardy banned)
- C.
Our involvement in the Korean War
Correct Answer
B. The Communist Party Dissolution Bill, Petrov Affair (Royal Commission) and government censorship (e.g. Power without Glory by Frank Hardy banned)Explanation
The correct answer is the Communist Party Dissolution Bill, Petrov Affair (Royal Commission) and government censorship. These measures were taken by the Australian government in response to the perceived threat of communism within Australia. The Communist Party Dissolution Bill aimed to outlaw the Communist Party in Australia, while the Petrov Affair and the subsequent Royal Commission investigated allegations of Soviet espionage. Government censorship was also implemented to control the spread of communist ideologies, as seen in the banning of books like "Power without Glory" by Frank Hardy. These actions reflect Australia's efforts to combat the influence of communism within its borders.Rate this question:
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- 13.
Which Australian PM withdrew Australia from the Vietnam War?
- A.
Menzies
- B.
Holt
- C.
Whitlam
Correct Answer
C. WhitlamExplanation
Whitlam is the correct answer because he was the Australian Prime Minister who withdrew Australia from the Vietnam War. He was elected in 1972 and one of his campaign promises was to end Australia's involvement in the war. In 1973, Whitlam fulfilled this promise by announcing the withdrawal of all Australian troops from Vietnam. This decision marked a significant shift in Australia's foreign policy and was seen as a symbol of Australia's desire for independence from the United States.Rate this question:
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- 14.
Australia's growing fear of which country was a reason it entered the Vietnam War?
- A.
Indonesia
- B.
North Korea
- C.
The Soviet Union
Correct Answer
A. IndonesiaExplanation
Australia's growing fear of Indonesia was a reason it entered the Vietnam War. The Indonesian government was seen as supporting and promoting communism in Southeast Asia, which threatened Australia's security and interests in the region. Australia believed that by joining the Vietnam War, it could help contain the spread of communism and prevent it from reaching its shores through Indonesia. This fear of Indonesia's communist influence and its potential impact on Australia's security ultimately led to Australia's involvement in the Vietnam War.Rate this question:
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- 15.
Which new Communist coutry sided with North Korea during the Korean War?
- A.
South Vietnam
- B.
China
- C.
Cuba
Correct Answer
B. ChinaExplanation
During the Korean War, China sided with North Korea. China's support for North Korea was driven by their shared Communist ideology and the desire to prevent the spread of capitalism in the region. China provided military assistance, including troops and supplies, to help North Korea in its fight against South Korea and the United Nations forces. This support from China was crucial in enabling North Korea to continue the war and maintain its position on the Korean Peninsula.Rate this question:
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- 16.
WHich of these is in correct order?
- A.
Menzies gains power, Communist Party Dissolution Bill, Referendum fails to be the Communist Party, The Petrov Affair
- B.
The Petrov Affair, Menzies gains power, Communist Party Dissolution Bill, Referendum fails to ban Communist Party
- C.
Referendum fails to ban the Communist Party, Communist Party Dissolution Bill, Menzies gains power, Petrov Affair
Correct Answer
A. Menzies gains power, Communist Party Dissolution Bill, Referendum fails to be the Communist Party, The Petrov Affair -
- 17.
What is the purpose of this propaganda?
- A.
To make Australians embrace communism
- B.
To make Australians fearful of communism using imagery which depicts communists as fearful beasts
- C.
To make Australians sign up to fight in the Vietnam War by painting communism as evil
Correct Answer
B. To make Australians fearful of communism using imagery which depicts communists as fearful beastsExplanation
The purpose of this propaganda is to instill fear in Australians regarding communism. This is achieved by using imagery that portrays communists as fearful beasts. By creating this association between communism and fear, the propaganda aims to discourage Australians from embracing communism and potentially mobilize them against it.Rate this question:
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- 18.
In what year was National Service (conscription) introduced into Australia by Menzies?
- A.
1961
- B.
1962
- C.
1964
Correct Answer
C. 1964Explanation
National Service (conscription) was introduced into Australia by Menzies in 1964. This policy required young men to serve in the military for a period of time, typically two years. It was implemented as a response to the increasing threat of communism during the Cold War. Menzies believed that conscription was necessary to strengthen Australia's defense forces and support its allies. The introduction of National Service sparked significant controversy and protests throughout the country, particularly during the Vietnam War era.Rate this question:
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- 19.
People who refused to fulfil their National Service commitments based on religious or moral grounds were known as....
- A.
Hippies
- B.
'The Great Unwashed'
- C.
Conscientious Objectors
Correct Answer
C. Conscientious ObjectorsExplanation
Conscientious Objectors were individuals who refused to fulfill their National Service commitments due to religious or moral beliefs. These individuals objected to participating in activities such as military service based on their personal convictions. The term "Conscientious Objectors" accurately describes this group of people who chose not to engage in National Service for these reasons.Rate this question:
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- 20.
A man who became famous for burning his National Service papers in the streets as an act of protest against conscription was...
- A.
William (Bill) White
- B.
William (BIll) Green
- C.
Robert (Bob) Brown
Correct Answer
A. William (Bill) WhiteExplanation
The man who became famous for burning his National Service papers in the streets as an act of protest against conscription is William (Bill) White.Rate this question:
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- 21.
The joining together of protest groups in 1970 and 1971 that brought Sydney and Melbourne to a standstill and forced the government to reconsider it's role in Vietnam was known as the what movement?
- A.
Protest
- B.
Sanitarium
- C.
Moratorium
Correct Answer
C. MoratoriumExplanation
The correct answer is "Moratorium." In 1970 and 1971, various protest groups in Sydney and Melbourne joined together to form the Moratorium movement. This movement aimed to bring attention to and oppose Australia's involvement in the Vietnam War. The protests organized by the Moratorium movement were successful in disrupting the normal functioning of the cities and putting pressure on the government to reassess its role in the war.Rate this question:
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- 22.
The Communist Party Dissolution Bill would have given the government the power to declare ANYONE a communist, would have banned the Australian Communist Party and if accused, you would have been guilty until proven innocent.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
The given statement suggests that the Communist Party Dissolution Bill would have granted the government the authority to label anyone as a communist, leading to a ban on the Australian Communist Party. Additionally, it states that if accused, individuals would be presumed guilty until proven innocent. Therefore, the statement implies that the Communist Party Dissolution Bill would have enabled the government to have significant control over individuals' political affiliations and would have violated the principle of innocent until proven guilty.Rate this question:
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- 23.
As a response to the threat of communism in Australia, the government censored a lot of publications. One such book, which had themes of government corruption was a book titled _______________ by ________________.
- A.
Grug by Ted Prior
- B.
Power without Glory by Frank Hardy
- C.
Power with Glory by Frank Hardy
Correct Answer
B. Power without Glory by Frank HardyExplanation
During the time when communism was seen as a threat in Australia, the government implemented censorship measures to control the spread of certain ideas. One book that fell victim to this censorship was "Power without Glory" by Frank Hardy. This book explored themes of government corruption, which may have been seen as too controversial or subversive during that period.Rate this question:
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- 24.
'Australians initially supported the Vietnam War, but after a few years, images on T.V (e.g. My Lai Massacre), the deaths of Australian soliders and the introduction of National Service in 1964 meant that this support faded.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
The statement is true because it explains that Australians initially supported the Vietnam War, but their support faded over time due to various factors. These factors include the portrayal of disturbing images on television, such as the My Lai Massacre, the deaths of Australian soldiers, and the implementation of National Service in 1964. These events and developments caused a shift in public opinion and decreased support for the war.Rate this question:
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- 25.
Which of these groups supported the war from start to finish?
- A.
The RSL (returned solider's league) and older, conservative Australians
- B.
Save Our Sons
- C.
University students
Correct Answer
A. The RSL (returned solider's league) and older, conservative AustraliansExplanation
The RSL (returned solider's league) and older, conservative Australians supported the war from start to finish. This group consisted of veterans who had first-hand experience of war and believed in the importance of national defense. Older, conservative Australians also tended to have a more traditional and patriotic perspective, which led them to support the war effort throughout its duration.Rate this question:
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- 26.
The Vietnam War was the first televised war
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
During the Vietnam War, television played a significant role in shaping public opinion and perception of the conflict. It was the first war to be extensively covered by television news networks, bringing the realities of war directly into people's living rooms. The graphic images and footage of the war had a profound impact on the American public, leading to increased anti-war sentiment and protests. The Vietnam War being the first televised war is a widely accepted fact in history.Rate this question:
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- 27.
After the Petrov Affair, a ROYAL COMMISSION was announced. It's findings were....
- A.
A major Soviet spy ring was found, alot of people charged
- B.
Some evidence of spying found, no charges laid
- C.
Doc Evatt was found to be a communist
Correct Answer
B. Some evidence of spying found, no charges laidExplanation
The correct answer is "Some evidence of spying found, no charges laid." This answer suggests that although some evidence of spying was discovered during the Royal Commission following the Petrov Affair, no charges were made against anyone involved. This implies that while there may have been suspicions or indications of espionage, there was insufficient evidence to prosecute or convict anyone.Rate this question:
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- 28.
'All the way with LBJ'. These words were muttered (rather embarrassingly) to reaffirm Australa's support for America in the Vietnam War by which Australian PM?
- A.
Harold Holt
- B.
Robert Menzies
- C.
Ben Chifley
Correct Answer
A. Harold HoltExplanation
Harold Holt was the Australian Prime Minister who famously uttered the words "All the way with LBJ" to reaffirm Australia's support for America in the Vietnam War. This statement was made during a visit by US President Lyndon B. Johnson to Australia in 1966. Holt's statement reflected Australia's commitment to align with the United States and support its military actions in Vietnam.Rate this question:
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- 29.
A chemical that was used as a defoliant to deny the Viet Cong of any jungle cover, but was found later to be cancer-causing was?
- A.
Napalm
- B.
Agent Orange
- C.
Pesticides
Correct Answer
B. Agent OrangeExplanation
Agent Orange was a chemical used during the Vietnam War as a defoliant to destroy the dense jungle cover that provided hiding places for the Viet Cong. However, it was later discovered that Agent Orange contained a toxic chemical called dioxin, which is highly carcinogenic and can cause various health issues, including cancer. This chemical has had long-lasting and devastating effects on both the Vietnamese population and the American veterans who were exposed to it.Rate this question:
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- 30.
Why was the Communist Party Dissolution Bill found to be 'unconstitutional' by the High Court?
- A.
Australia is a democracy and every person has a right to voice their political views
- B.
It was unfair on Australians who would have been accused
- C.
It was against the law
Correct Answer
A. Australia is a democracy and every person has a right to voice their political viewsExplanation
The Communist Party Dissolution Bill was found to be 'unconstitutional' by the High Court because Australia is a democracy and every person has a right to voice their political views. This means that the bill, which aimed to dissolve the Communist Party, violated the democratic principles of freedom of speech and political expression. By attempting to suppress a particular political ideology, the bill infringed upon the rights of Australians to engage in political discourse and participate in the democratic process.Rate this question:
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- 31.
What was the main outcome of the Petrov Affair?
- A.
Menzies gained popularity and the Labor Party grew
- B.
Menzies lost the next election
- C.
Menzies regained popularity as the fear of communism had been re-ignited, Labor Party was split
Correct Answer
C. Menzies regained popularity as the fear of communism had been re-ignited, Labor Party was splitExplanation
The main outcome of the Petrov Affair was that Menzies regained popularity as the fear of communism had been re-ignited and the Labor Party was split. This suggests that the event had a significant impact on the political landscape, leading to a shift in public opinion and support for Menzies. The fear of communism was a powerful force during this time, and the Petrov Affair, which involved a Soviet spy defecting to Australia, likely played a role in rekindling those fears. Additionally, the split within the Labor Party further solidified Menzies' position and contributed to his regained popularity.Rate this question:
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- 32.
Why would this source be useful to an historian studying the growing opposition to the Vietnam War in Australia?
- A.
It shows the sheer numbers of people who were willing to protest in public against the war
- B.
It is a secondary source
- C.
It is a visual source
Correct Answer
A. It shows the sheer numbers of people who were willing to protest in public against the warExplanation
This source would be useful to an historian studying the growing opposition to the Vietnam War in Australia because it provides evidence of the large scale public protests against the war. The visual nature of the source allows the historian to see the sheer numbers of people who were willing to publicly express their opposition to the war. As a secondary source, it can provide additional perspectives and insights into the anti-war movement in Australia during that time.Rate this question:
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Jan 06, 2023Quiz Edited by
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