Living with Agent Orange: Conversations in Postwar Viet Nam

The harmful legacies of Agent Orange, the toxic herbicide used by the American military during the Vietnam War, have affected the lives of nearly three million Vietnamese people. Diane Niblack Fox interviewed families and individuals in the northern, central, and southern regions of Vietnam to understand the impact of Agent Orange on their lives and livelihoods. The book captures the personal accounts of villagers, including their struggles to care for loved ones with chronic illnesses and disabilities and their efforts to secure medical and financial assistance. It also showcases the stories of rebuilt lives, family and community support, and the resilience of the human spirit.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 208 pages
Publication date: 28 February 2024
Publisher: University of Massachusetts Press

For over half a century, the Vietnamese people have borne the devastating consequences of Agent Orange, the toxic herbicide deployed by the American military during the Vietnam War as a form of chemical warfare. Despite ongoing scientific and political debates regarding its human and environmental impacts, the nearly three million Vietnamese individuals whose lives have been shaped by its lingering effects have largely been excluded from the discourse. To gain a deeper understanding of the enduring effects of Agent Orange, Diane Niblack Fox conducted extensive interviews with families and individuals residing in various regions across the northern, central, and southern parts of Vietnam. Through her poignant and powerful prose, Fox vividly captures the personal accounts of villagers, who share their experiences of caring for loved ones afflicted with chronic illnesses and disabilities, as well as their relentless efforts to secure medical and financial support.

Living with Agent Orange also unfolds the inspiring stories of resilience and rebuilding, showcasing the unwavering support of family and community, as well as the indomitable human spirit. These narratives shed light on the profound toll that Agent Orange has taken on individuals and communities, highlighting the urgent need for comprehensive assistance and rehabilitation efforts to address the long-term consequences of this chemical warfare.

It is crucial to recognize the ongoing struggles and sacrifices of the Vietnamese people, who have borne the brunt of Agent Orange's legacy for decades. Their stories serve as a reminder of the profound impact of war and the importance of addressing the consequences of such toxic chemicals on human health and the environment. By amplifying their voices and advocating for their rights, we can work towards a more just and equitable world for all, where the harmful legacies of Agent Orange are finally overcome.

Weight: 346g
Dimension: 153 x 228 x 19 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781625347473