The Korean War

The Korean War began on June 25, 1950 when South Korea was invaded by North Korea. The US entered the war 5 days later on June 30th in defense of South Korea. The forces of the US were lead by General MacArthur. Korea was divided like Germany was divided. One zone was controlled by Soviets and one zone was controlled by Americans. The Truman administration wanted South Korea to become a powerhouse for USA’s economy. Truman went through great efforts to make sure the term “war” was not used. This would be a loophole in helping South Korea. After, forces for South Korea were pushed south, MacArthur landed in Inchon and took out North Korean forces using a pincer tactic. The war would have been over except Truman said, “I am calling upon the Chinese government on Formosa to cease all air and sea operations against the mainland.

The 7th Fleet will see that this is done.” The Chinese also decided to intervene in Korea. The Chinese set up a trap with 300,000 soldiers for the UN’s soldiers. MacArthur wanted to destroy the bridges on the Yalu River but Truman stopped it. MacArthur said in response, “I realized for the first time that I had actually been denied the use of my full military power.” (4). MacArthur was fighting for victory while Truman fought to maintain status quo. On Oct. 28, the 38th Parallel was established. The treaty between USA and China was signed on July 27, 1953. The US lost around 34,000 with 107,000 wounded or missing. The UN lost 995,000. China and North Korea lost a total of 1,420,000. The role of the USA army was extended to peacekeeping for the UN.