Failed Coup Attempt Against General Nguyễn Khánh
September 13th, 1964
September 13th, 1964

How Long Ago?
60 years, 6 months, 2 days ago
Location
Saigon, Vietnam
Category
Politics & Government
War/Conflict
Vietnam War
People
- Lâm Văn Phát
- Nguyễn Khánh
- Dương Văn Đức
Links & References
- Army of the Republic of Vietnam
- Lâm Văn Phát
- Nguyễn Khánh
- Dương Văn Đức
- September 1964 South Vietnamese coup attempt
Tags
Failed Coup Attempt Against General Nguyễn Khánh
South Vietnamese Generals Lâm Văn Phát and Dương Văn Đức orchestrated a coup attempt to overthrow General Nguyễn Khánh, the leading military figure in South Vietnam. The plot, aimed at seizing control of the government and military, ultimately failed, resulting in the capture of the conspirators. This attempt was part of the ongoing power struggles among military leaders amid the pressing instability in the South Vietnamese government and mounting challenges from the Viet Cong insurgency.
Coup aimed to oust General Nguyễn Khánh.
Failed due to lack of support and chaos.
Reinforced Khánh's power temporarily.
Highlight of military rivalries in South Vietnam.
What Happened?
In September 1964, South Vietnam was rife with political instability and ongoing conflict with communist forces. Amid this turmoil, Generals Lâm Văn Phát and Dương Văn Đức sought to capitalize on the discontent by mounting a coup against General Nguyễn Khánh, who had been in power through a military coup in January. Phát and Đức, both significant military figures, aimed to challenge what they considered Khánh's ineffective leadership in managing the war effort against the Viet Cong insurgents. The duo believed that ousting Khánh would allow for a more effective military approach and restore stability to the South Vietnamese government.
As the coup unfolded, it faced several complications. Disorganization and lack of support from key military factions hindered their efforts. Soon after the attempt commenced, loyalist forces responded, swiftly thwarting the coup. The repercussions were immediate, as both generals were arrested, leading to a reassertion of Khánh’s power. This coup attempt illustrated the pervasive nature of military conflicts in South Vietnam, where leadership changes frequently spiraled into political chaos. The unsuccessful bid also emphasized the fragility of governance in South Vietnam during a period filled with internal divisions and external pressures from the North.
The aftermath of the failed coup solidified General Nguyễn Khánh's grip on power, albeit temporarily. It also highlighted the intense rivalry and distrust between various military leaders, which would continue to fuel further upheavals in the years that followed. With South Vietnam heavily relying on American support, the U.S. became increasingly involved in trying to stabilize the government amidst the ongoing Vietnam War, marking a significant turning point in U.S. foreign policy toward Vietnam. Thus, the failed coup became a snapshot of the complexities and challenges within South Vietnam’s military governance during a crucial phase of the conflict.
Why Does it Matter?
The failed coup attempt against General Nguyễn Khánh is significant as it underscores the internal strife within the South Vietnamese military leadership during the Vietnam War. These power struggles contributed to a persistent cycle of instability, making effective governance nearly impossible. The event exemplified the challenges faced by the South Vietnamese government in its battle against both the Viet Cong and its own military leaders, revealing the intricacies of loyalty and betrayal within the ranks.
Discover More Historic Events from September 13th
Taliban Attack on US Consulate in Herat
Taliban insurgents launched an attack on the United States consulate in Herat, Afghanistan. The assault left two members of the Afghan National Police dead and resulted in approximately 20 civilian injuries. The attack involved heavy gunfire and explosions, highlighting ongoing security challenges in the region amidst the fluctuating dynamics of Taliban insurgency and foreign diplomatic presence.
Continue ReadingSeries of Bomb Blasts Rock Delhi's Markets
A coordinated series of bomb blasts occurred in various bustling markets across Delhi, India, resulting in significant casualties. Initiated during the peak shopping hours in the crowded areas, the explosions led to a tragic toll of 30 individuals confirmed dead and over 130 injured. Emergency services rushed to the scenes to assist those wounded and to conduct further investigations into the attacks, which were attributed to a terrorist group seeking to create chaos in a heavily populated urban landscape.
Continue ReadingUnited Nations Adopts Indigenous Peoples' Rights
In a historic move, the United Nations General Assembly unanimously adopted the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, setting a significant milestone for the recognition of indigenous rights worldwide. This declaration aims to address issues faced by indigenous communities, including rights to land, culture, and self-determination. The document emphasizes the importance of protecting the diverse cultures and traditions of indigenous populations and highlights their role in achieving sustainable development. The declaration was the result of over two decades of advocacy from indigenous groups and nations.
Continue ReadingMcLaren F1 Team Found Guilty of Espionage
In 2007, the FIA found McLaren F1 guilty of possessing confidential information from Ferrari. As a result, McLaren was fined $100 million and excluded from the constructors' championship standings. The decision stemmed from an investigation into allegations of espionage, significantly affecting the team’s future prospects and competitive integrity in Formula 1 racing.
Continue ReadingCivilian Aircraft Traffic Resumes in U.S.
Civilian aircraft traffic resumed in the United States after being grounded in the wake of the September 11 attacks. The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) lifted the ban on commercial flights after a thorough assessment of air safety protocols and security measures. Airports began an extensive review of their security operations to enhance safety for passengers and staff. This marked a significant move towards normalizing air travel in America.
Continue ReadingMid-air Collision of Military Aircraft Near Namibia
A German Air Force Tupolev Tu-154 collided with a United States Air Force Lockheed C-141 Starlifter near Namibia, resulting in the deaths of 33 personnel from both aircraft. The incident occurred during a military exercise, where the two planes were engaged in air maneuvers. This tragic event highlighted the risks associated with joint military operations, particularly in crowded airspaces.
Continue Reading