The Impact of the Vietnam War

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For many Americans it is common knowledge to know about the Vietnam War; however, for some Americans the Vietnam War is ancient history, dishonorable, but irrelevant nonetheless. If people do not physically see the many horrors of war it is easy to forget; although maybe it is something we try to forget. However, there are some who may be able to forget there will be some, like politicians, that will not forget. The Vietnam War had a terrible impact on both the United States and Vietnam, and more importantly it would affect foreign policy for many years to come.

It is highly debatable for what the reasons were for the Vietnam War beginning but for the most part the reason was to stop the spread of communism. Communism was on the rise and it was believed that the “Domino Effect” was occurring. This domino effect means exactly like it reads if one country goes the rest will just continue to fall towards communism. Near the beginning the U.S. had very limited involvement and was mainly aiding the French in their efforts to fight off Ho Chi Minh and his Viet Minh regime. But eventually the U.S. would stand firm with support to South Vietnam. This would end up being of very high cost to the United States not only with soldiers but with the impact it would have on its people.

The Gulf of Tonkin Incident greatly increased America’s involvement in Vietnam. In August of 1964, Viet Cong patrol boats attacked the destroyer ship, U.S.S. Maddox, which in turn gave authorization to President Johnson to “take all necessary measures” to break communist aggression. Johnson ordered retaliatory bombing of North Vietnam. This led to the Vietcong attacking American installations in South Vietnam.

In response to the Vietcong attacks, President Joh...

... middle of paper ...

...m conflict still lingered for the Vietnamese and American people. But a new phase began, characterized by hope, new friendships, and cultural and political exchange unprecedented in the history of two nations once at war. Our Vietnam, the war nobody won, the deadliest war, helps provide the justification for that continuing effort at reconciliation.

Works Cited

Karnow, Stanley. Vietnam: A History. New York: Penguin, 1991. Print.

Miranda, Richard C. "Vietnam." Personal interview. 4 Dec. 2011.

Thomas, Gary. "Military News - Veteran News: Vietnam War Haunts American Politics,

Society." Free People Search, Military Locator, Military Reunions, GI Bill Benefits,

Military News, Veteran Benefits at Military Connections. Web. 04 Dec. 2011.

Vietnam War. 4 Dec. 2011. .

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