The Vietnam War: 1956-75

The Vietnam War was a complex and divisive conflict that involved the United States and North Vietnam. The US believed it was fighting against communism and used overwhelming force, while the North Vietnamese and Viet Cong resorted to guerrilla tactics. The war lasted for many years and had a lasting impact on both countries. This book provides an accessible introduction to the war, with updated information and images.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 144 pages
Publication date: 20 January 2022
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

America's most divisive war, the Vietnam War, is explored in this comprehensive and visually rich introduction by renowned historian Dr. Andrew Wiest. The United States entered the conflict with a firm belief in its Cold War doctrines and a moral obligation to prevent the spread of communism worldwide. However, the reality of the war was far different from what the country had anticipated.

Dr. Wiest delves into the strategies employed by the North Vietnamese and Viet Cong forces, who, despite being outnumbered and outgunned, resorted to guerrilla warfare based on the theories of Mao Zedong of China. In contrast, the US responded with overwhelming firepower and military might. The result was a brutal and prolonged conflict that left a lasting impact on both countries.

The book examines the consequences of the Vietnam War, which altered America's political landscape and contributed to the country's internal divisions. It explores how the war battered the nation's psyche and weakened its confidence, as it struggled to come to terms with its military defeat and the loss of lives. Moreover, the war had far-reaching geopolitical implications, as it marked a turning point in the Cold War and led to the US's withdrawal from Southeast Asia.

In this updated and revised edition, Dr. Wiest incorporates full-color maps and new images to enhance the reader's understanding of the conflict. The book is designed to be accessible to a wide audience, including students, scholars, and general readers interested in learning about this significant event of the "American Century."

The Vietnam War remains a topic of intense debate and discussion, with its legacy shaping American politics and society to this day. By providing a concise and insightful overview of the war, this book serves as a valuable resource for anyone seeking to understand the complexities and consequences of this pivotal period in history.

Weight: 310g
Dimension: 209 x 151 x 11 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781472851123