Tonkin Gulf Resolution

The Gulf of Tonkin Resolution was a resolution approved by the United States Congress on August 7, 1964. This authorized President Lyndon Johnson to take all neccessary actions to prevent further aggression in Southeast Asia.

The Tonkin Gulf Resolution was passed after North Vietnamese torpedo boats had allegedly attacked U.S. destroyers in the Gulf of Tonkin on August 4, 1964. Following this incident, President Lyndon Johnson began immediate air attacks on North Vietnam. He also asked Congress to give him complete military control.

Presidents Johnson and Nixon used this resolution to justify their military actions that proceeded in Southeast Asia. The Tonkin Gulf Resolution was later repealed by Congress in 1970.