The Gulf of Tonkin Resolution was a joint resolution of the United States Congress that was passed on August 7, 1964, in response to the Gulf of Tonkin incident. The resolution gave President Lyndon B. Johnson broad authority to "take all necessary measures to repel any armed attack against the forces of the United States and to prevent further aggression."
Gulf of Tonkin Incident
On August 2, 1964, the destroyer USS Maddox was reportedly attacked by North Vietnamese torpedo boats in the Gulf of Tonkin. Two days later, on August 4, the destroyers USS Turner Joy and USS Maddox reported another attack.
Immediate Consequences
In response to the Gulf of Tonkin incident, President Johnson ordered airstrikes against North Vietnam. He also asked Congress to pass the Gulf of Tonkin Resolution, which would give him broad authority to wage war in Vietnam. Congress passed the resolution by a vote of 416 to 0 in the House of Representatives and 88 to 2 in the Senate.
Long-Term Consequences
The Gulf of Tonkin Resolution had a number of long-term consequences. It significantly escalated the United States' involvement in the Vietnam War and ultimately led to the deaths of over 58,000 American soldiers. The resolution also damaged the credibility of the United States government and contributed to the growing anti-war movement in the United States.
Controversy
There has been considerable controversy over the Gulf of Tonkin incident and the resolution that followed. Some historians have argued that the Johnson administration exaggerated the extent of the attacks in order to justify escalating the war. Others have argued that the attacks were genuine and that the United States was justified in responding.