Full Description
The Viet Nam War divided citizens in both the United States and Viet Nam. Profound cultural differences between the nations contributed to the horror of the war. These differences remain today. Helping to demystify the war and educate both students and general readers, this clear historical overview ranges from the events that preceded the war to its end in 1975. The book features a discussion of the Vietnamese and American ways of life in the Viet Nam era, along with a wide assortment of primary documents from a diverse selection of U.S. and Vietnamese soldiers and civilians. These compelling excerpts are mostly from everyday soldiers' letters to home and from interviews conducted by the author.
Presented chronologically and thematically, the documents move from early motivations and war experiences to the war's end and enduring legacy, fleshing out the meaning of the conflict for Americans and Vietnamese alike. This volume is unique in including many new personal accounts from ordinary Vietnamese, fighting against and for the U.S. cause. A balanced view of the war and its aftermath presents the suffering of all involved. Numerous photos, a glossary, and a timeline enhance the text.
Contents
Preface Acronyms A Viet Nam Timeline of Key Events Cultural and Historical Perspectives A Historical Review of the Viet Nam War Understanding the Cultural Conflicts between the United States and Viet Nam Documents The Cold War Comes to Indochina Americans and Vietnamese Fight Their Wars Stalemate Tests the Will of Fighters and Civilians Alike The Long Conflict Ends, Lasting Legacies Are Forged Reflecting Ideas for Exploration Suggestions for Further Reading Appendix A: Speech by Ho Chi Minh for Declaration of Independence in Hanoi Appendix B: Letter from Ho Chi Minh to President Harry S Truman Appendix C: American Casualties in the Viet Nam War Appendix D: Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Glossary Index
