Jockeying for political advantages
Even though South Korea had much support from nations against North Korea, there was still much tension between the two countries. Many had thought that by North Korea withdrawing it's plan, that the issue was almost over and gone- among those were President Truman and General MacArthur. However, their hypothesis would later prove to be false. In October of 1950, China had intervened into the clash. It also surprised everyone when China showed to be fighting on the North Korean side. An immense number of Chinese troops showed themselves in the mountains throwing American soldiers for a loop. This surprised our troops so much that they were forced to retreat. Apparently South Korea wasn't the only side receiving support.
After American troops were forced to retreat, it seemed that the fate of Korea was on its way down the path to communism. On November 1, American forces were defeated by the Chinese in Unsan. MacArthur refused to give up, however. MacArthur ordered bombing raids against numerous bridges. When MacArthur ordered raids against northernmost provinces, they were only successful in destroying one-third of the bridges.
Lieutenant General Matthew Ridgway gained control of three ground forces in Korea. From there, Ridgway evacuated his troops and rebuilt their confidence. He gave them better food and warmer coats. He also improved the conditions of Mobil Army Surgical Hospitals- also referred to as "MASH." He believed that if his troops believed they had a chance in living they would fight harder. They then returned to the offensive tactic. In March, Operation "Ripper" was a success in taking Seoul. MacArthur realized Ridgway's success and began to badmouth Ridgway in jealousy.
After American troops were forced to retreat, it seemed that the fate of Korea was on its way down the path to communism. On November 1, American forces were defeated by the Chinese in Unsan. MacArthur refused to give up, however. MacArthur ordered bombing raids against numerous bridges. When MacArthur ordered raids against northernmost provinces, they were only successful in destroying one-third of the bridges.
Lieutenant General Matthew Ridgway gained control of three ground forces in Korea. From there, Ridgway evacuated his troops and rebuilt their confidence. He gave them better food and warmer coats. He also improved the conditions of Mobil Army Surgical Hospitals- also referred to as "MASH." He believed that if his troops believed they had a chance in living they would fight harder. They then returned to the offensive tactic. In March, Operation "Ripper" was a success in taking Seoul. MacArthur realized Ridgway's success and began to badmouth Ridgway in jealousy.