The Vietnam War

Paper Summary:

The paper explains how the era of McCarthyism in America ushered in a period of policies aimed at combating communism. This and the policy of containment which aimed to limit the expansion of communism explains the involvement of the United States in Korea and Vietnam. The paper relates that the Vietnam War resulted in the Vietcong winning over the Americans. The paper discusses how Ho Chi Minh's leadership, dedication and sacrifice were the primary reason for Vietnam's success in the war against an opponent with superior training and equipment. The paper explains that Americans' commitment and dedication to a war that was not actually theirs, underestimation of their opponents and scrutiny at home and abroad were the causes for America's loss in the Vietnam War.

From the Paper:

"Not only did the NVA and Vietcong employ military tactics but they also closely studied their American enemies. As daily casualties took its toll on America's forces and reports of atrocities and drug abuse filled the American media, the NVA and Vietcong capitalized on this by giving the media access to villages decimated by American troops and airmen in their countless "search and destroy" operations and bombing runs (America and the World, pp 187). As protests mounted around the United States, the NVA leadership sent letter hailing these peace advocates as heroes and followers of peace and justice, further fueling more and more anti war rallies."

Sample of Sources Used:

• "Main Ideas in U.S. Foreign Policy" (Exploring the American Past, Below, p. 133-148)
• "The Vietnam War" (Exploring the American Past, Below, p.180-207)

More papers on The Vietnam War:

• Book Review # 142157 : "The Vietnam War On Trial": Book Review"
• Comparison Essay # 42331 : "The Vietnam War"
• Cause and Effect Essay # 112589 : "Student Unrest and the Vietnam War"
• Book Review # 57859 : "Bloods: An Oral History of the Vietnam War"

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