The Provisional Revolutionary Government sought legitimacy and negotiations with which parties?

• A. The United Nations and the Soviet Union
• B. The United States and the Saigon government
• C. China and North Vietnam
• D. The Viet Minh and the Viet Cong

Answer: (B)

The Provisional Revolutionary Government aimed to be seen as the legitimate authority in the south and to push for a political settlement by sitting at the peace table with the two powers that could decide South Vietnam’s future: the United States and the Saigon government (the Republic of Vietnam). By seeking recognition from Washington and Saigon, the PRG hoped to legitimize itself as a representative government and to participate in negotiations that would end the war. While other actors like the Soviet Union or China offered support, and while the PRG drew strength from North Vietnam, the direct negotiations and legitimacy sought were with the United States and the Saigon regime.