Nixon Doctrine: The Silent Majority Speech

Richard Nixon | U.S. Government | 1969-11-03

In a Nov. 3, 1969 address to the nation, President Nixon discussed concerns and policy related to the war in Vietnam. His speech outlined what later became known as the Nixon Doctrine. It explained how the United States would interact with its allies, specifically in Asia.

Excerpt from the speech:

"First, the United States will keep all of its treaty commitments.
"Second, we shall provide a shield if a nuclear power threatens the freedom of a nation allied with us or of a nation whose survival we consider vital to our security.
"Third, in cases involving other types of aggression, we shall furnish military and economic assistance when requested in accordance with our treaty commitments. But we shall look to the nation directly threatened to assume the primary responsibility of providing the manpower for its defense."