NORTH VIETNAM v. SOUTH VIETNAM | VIETNAM “WAR” (1955-1975)
Or, as the Vietnamese call it, the American War. Continuing the policy of communist containment that formed the justification for action in Korea, the U.S. drew a line in the ’Nam after several embarrassing foreign policy fumbles. Another proxy fight against China/Russia with roots in the administrative aftermath of WWII ensued.
Using heavy opposition casualties during the Tet Offensive as an excuse, President Richard Nixon began withdrawing U.S. troops in 1969. The loss forced national contemplation of the prudence of fighting a war of choice that would forever prevent the U.S. milit — oh, for Pete’s sake…
