While the Vietnam War is thought of as a conflict that began in the early 1960s, the United States was involved in Vietnam from 1945 to 1975. During the course of the war, nearly 60,000 Americans were killed. The events of the Vietnam War set off a firestorm of protest at home that shook the foundations of the country and forever changed the character of our nation.
Vietnam War: The Essential Reference Guide provides a compendium of the key people, places, organizations, treaties, and events that make up the history of the war, explaining its causes, how it was conducted, and its far-reaching consequences. Written by recognized authorities, this ready-reference volume provides essential information all in one place and includes a comprehensive list of additional sources for further study.
The work presents a detailed chronology that outlines the numerous battles and campaigns throughout the war, such as the Tet Offensive, the Battle of Hamburger Hill, Operation Rolling Thunder, and the Battle of Hue. Biographies on Lyndon Johnson, William Westmoreland, Robert McNamara, Ngo Dinh Diem, and other major political figures and military leaders provide insight into the individuals who played key roles in the conflict, while primary source documents such as President Nixon’s speech on Vietnamization provide invaluable historical context.
