1971

Lt. Calley Convicted of Murder

Pentagon Papers Published:  A legacy of deception on the part of the military and the executive branch concerning U.S. policy in Vietnam is revealed as the New York Times publishes the Pentagon Papers.  The Nixon administration, eager to stop leaks of what they consider sensitive information, appeals to the Supreme Court to halt the publication.  The Court decides in favor the Times and allows continued publication.

Nixon Announces Plans to Visit China:  In a move that troubles the North Vietnamese, President Nixon announces his intention to visit The People’s Republic of China.  Nixon’s gesture toward China is seen by the North Vietnamese as an effort to create discord between themselves and their Chinese allies.

Thieu Re-elected in South Vietnam