Lessons on Case Study 2: Indochina Refugee Crisis (1975–1990)

Our lesson plans listed below help students develop a strong understanding of the Indochina refugee crisis between 1975 and 1990 and the conditions that forced people to flee Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos after Communist victories in the region. The lessons are designed for the new IBDP History Paper 1 focused study, Conflict and Displacement, and support students as they build historical knowledge while practising source analysis skills.

Students examine the conditions that led to mass displacement, including the impact of combat operations, the fall of Saigon and Communist victory in Vietnam, the Khmer Rouge takeover of Cambodia and the Pathet Lao victory in Laos. They also explore how persecution, fear of reprisals and economic hardship contributed to continuing refugee movements across Indochina.

The lessons investigate national and international responses to displacement. Students consider refugee camps, migration, emigration and repatriation, as well as the role of the United States, the Vietnamese government and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), including the Orderly Departure Program established in 1979.

Students also analyse how displacement was experienced by different groups. These include Vietnamese refugees, the Hoa ethnic Chinese population, Montagnard communities, Cambodians fleeing the Khmer Rouge, including the Chams, and Laotians and highland peoples of Laos, including the Hmong.

Through clear historical content, carefully selected sources and IBDP-style source analysis activities, students learn to explain source content, analyse source context and examine different perspectives in relation to the inquiry questions. These lessons provide teachers with purposeful, classroom-ready material while helping students develop the knowledge and skills required for IBDP History Paper 1 and the 2028 examinations.

Suggested Video Support

Cold War: Vietnam 1954–1968 (46:32)

This documentary explores the background to the Vietnam War, the growth of United States involvement and the impact of escalating conflict, providing context for students examining how combat operations contributed to displacement in Vietnam.

How The Tet Offensive Changed The Vietnam War | HISTORY (5:18)

This short video explains the 1968 Tet Offensive and why it became a major turning point in the Vietnam War, particularly through its impact on United States public opinion and confidence in the war effort.

Cambodia | Prince Sihanouk | This Week | 1969 (27:17)

This 1969 interview with Prince Sihanouk gives students context on Cambodia’s position during the Vietnam War. Sihanouk discusses the problems facing Cambodia and its people, especially the growing conflict in neighbouring Laos and Vietnam.

The forgotten war between Vietnam and the Khmer Rouge (2:02)

This short video explains how Vietnam and the Khmer Rouge changed from Communist allies into enemies after 1975. It gives students context for Vietnam’s invasion of Cambodia and the continued displacement that followed Khmer Rouge rule.

America’s Secret War: The CIA’s Hidden Campaign in Laos (56:31)

This documentary explains the United States’ secret involvement in Laos during the Vietnam War. It gives students context on the CIA-backed campaign, the role of Hmong forces, bombing in Laos and the conditions that contributed to displacement after 1975.