Setting The Stage –Korean War

From the map, can you explain the logic of dividing Korea at the 38th Parallel?

What possible influence, do you think might Korea’s geographic location had on the events of the Korean War?

For today’s lesson, we will be exploring the factors for the

outbreak of the Korean War, with emphasis on Truman’s role.

Korea’s History

Problems besetting the Korean Peninsular had its roots in the early 20th Century

1910 – Korean fell under Japanese military government

There was much oppression but appeals to the United States was neglected.

Japan had support of both Great Britain and US.

Korea Post-WWII

Divided along the 38th Parallel

Republic of Korea (ROK) – Syngman Rhee

Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK) – Kim Il Sung

Korea Post-WWII

1949 – Both Soviet Union and US left

Soviet Union left behind a considerable army and weapons but US only equipped ROK with supplies enough for defense

Communist Triumph in China1949

Large communist presence in Asia

Provided support to the DPRK

In light of the Truman Doctrine, what do you think the United States might have felt?