LBJ's Dillemma

With tensions between South and North Vietnam escalating, Lyndon B. Johnson continued John F. Kennedy's commitment to aid South Vietnam to counter the communist North. We know that Johnson has been one of the most influential presidents in affecting domestic policies, however, he is relatively inexperienced in foreign policy which is one of an "inner insecurity" of his. As a result of this, he relied heavily on the advice and beliefs of his pro-war advisors such as McNamara. 

Because of his experience and his position as a new leader, Johnson's actions in the Vietnam War were often driven by his need to present a strong image of both himself and the country. His continuation of Kennedy's war efforts was attributed to his desire to "sustain the international credibility of the United States." While his actions in the Gulf of Tonkin Resolution was also "to show the American people  that he was every bit as tough as... his opponent in the election campaign." 

These expectations from society and other politicians dictated Johnson's actions in the war because his public image was on the line. He would've faced backlash from people if he was not aggressive enough in the Vietnam war. Patterson said, "Like Kennedy, he feared the backlash that might whip him if he seemed 'soft' on Vietnam." However, at the same time, Johnson didn't want to be too aggressive in the war effort because he feared "alienating allies and provoking China and the Soviet Union." By being too invested in the war, he risked a global altercation as well as putting more American lives on the line. This presented a difficult dilemma for Johnson, who was also working hard to manage his Great Society agenda. No matter what direction he goes in the Vietnam War, there were dire consequences.