A War Tour of Viet Nam: A Cultural History

The Viet Nam War ended almost half a century ago, but its legacy remains in the places where it was fought and in the memories and memorials of those who survived it. The author explores the culture, history, popular music, and countries involved in the war, including Dien Bien Phu, the DMZ, Hamburger Hill, the Rock Pile, the Cu Chi Tunnels, and Australia's most famous battlefield, Long Tan. Residual hazards of the war, such as unexploded ordnance (UXO), remain in places like Siem Reap, Luang Prabang, and Quang Tri Province.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 277 pages
Publication date: 28 February 2022
Publisher: McFarland & Co Inc

The Viet Nam War, which concluded nearly fifty years ago, has left a profound and enduring legacy in the regions where it was fought and in the memories and monuments of those who survived it. This book, blending history, travelogue, and personal narratives, delves into the enduring impact of the war, which continues to shape the landscape and culture of the countries involved.

The author takes readers on a chronological journey through the war, exploring various aspects of culture, history, popular music, and the key players involved. The story unfolds through the lens of North and South Viet Nam, Laos, Cambodia, Australia, and the United States, each of which played a significant role in the conflict.

The book traverses significant sites such as Dien Bien Phu, where French colonialism came to an end and U.S. intervention began, the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ), Hamburger Hill, the Rock Pile, the Cu Chi Tunnels, and Australia's most renowned battlefield, Long Tan. These sites serve as poignant reminders of the human cost and the technological advancements that were made during the war.

However, the legacy of the Viet Nam War extends beyond the physical scars and battlefields. Residual hazards of the war persist in the form of unexploded ordnance (UXO), which continues to pose risks to communities and ecosystems. In places like Siem Reap, Luang Prabang, and Quang Tri Province, nonprofit organizations like Project RENEW work tirelessly to manage the removal of UXO and provide assistance to victims.

Through vivid storytelling and extensive research, this book offers a comprehensive understanding of the Viet Nam War's legacy, shedding light on the profound impact it has had on the countries involved and the individuals who lived through it. It serves as a testament to the resilience and determination of the human spirit in the face of adversity and a call to continue addressing the challenges and consequences of war.

Weight: 390g
Dimension: 254 x 178 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781476682419