The fall of Saigon occurred in the context of the prolonged Vietnam War, a conflict that had pitted North Vietnam and its communist allies against South Vietnam and its primary supporter, the United States. While the United States began withdrawing its troops in the early 1970s, the North Vietnamese forces intensified their military strategy, culminating in a rapid offensive that breached South Vietnam’s defenses. On April 30, 1975, the North Vietnamese Army breached the city’s defenses, leading to widespread panic among the population, many of whom sought to flee the city. This moment was characterized by chaotic scenes, including desperate crowds attempting to escape by any means available. The day ended with the unconditional surrender of Dương Văn Minh, the last President of South Vietnam, who recognized the futility of resistance against the overwhelming communist forces. His surrender at the Independence Palace symbolized the end of the South Vietnamese government and led to the official reunification of Vietnam under communist rule. Internationally, the event had significant repercussions, reshaping U.S. foreign policy and leading to the re-evaluation of American military engagements around the world. The image of the fall of Saigon has since become emblematic of the war's controversial legacy and its wider implications.