1. Eisenhower Administration (1953-1961)
- Goal: To contain the spread of communism in Southeast Asia and prevent a communist takeover in South Vietnam.
- Strategy: Provided economic aid and military support to the South Vietnamese government led by President Ngo Dinh Diem, but avoided direct military involvement.
2. Kennedy Administration (1961-1963)
- Goal: To strengthen South Vietnam's military and political capabilities to defend itself against communist forces and ultimately achieve a peaceful reunification of the country.
- Strategy: Increased the number of American military advisors in Vietnam and provided more military assistance, including training and equipment. Also launched a program of counterinsurgency and nation-building efforts to win over the civilian population.
3. Johnson Administration (1963-1969)
- Goal: To prevent the communist takeover of South Vietnam and preserve American prestige and credibility in the world.
- Strategy: Escalated the American military involvement in Vietnam by sending ground combat troops and increasing the use of airpower and bombing campaigns against North Vietnam. Also expanded the U.S. military presence in Thailand, Laos, and Cambodia.
It is important to note that these administrations' goals and strategies evolved over time in response to changing circumstances on the ground and public opinion in the United States.