research paper on vietnam war

Vietnam War Research Paper Topics

Welcome to iResearchNet’s comprehensive guide on Vietnam War research paper topics . This page is tailored specifically for students studying history who have been tasked with writing a research paper on this pivotal period of global conflict. Here, you will find a wealth of thought-provoking and diverse research topics that will allow you to delve into the complexities and impacts of the Vietnam War.

100 Vietnam War Research Paper Topics

The Vietnam War stands as one of the most significant and contentious conflicts of the 20th century, leaving an indelible mark on global history. For students studying this era, exploring the multitude of Vietnam War research paper topics is a compelling opportunity to gain insights into the complexities of war, diplomacy, society, and culture. In this section, we present an extensive and diverse list of research paper topics, meticulously organized into ten categories. Each category offers ten thought-provoking Vietnam War research paper topics, inviting students to delve into various facets of the conflict and its far-reaching impact. Whether you are interested in the war’s origins, military strategies, social ramifications, or the aftermath, this comprehensive list will inspire and guide you in crafting a well-informed and engaging research paper.

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Causes and Background of the Vietnam War

• French Colonialism in Vietnam: The Seeds of Conflict
• Ho Chi Minh and the Rise of Vietnamese Nationalism
• The Role of the United States in the Early Stages of the Conflict
• The Domino Theory and its Influence on U.S. Foreign Policy
• Assessing the Impact of World War II on the Vietnam War
• Roots of Anti-Communist Sentiments in the U.S. Government
• Examining the Geneva Accords and their Implications for Vietnam’s Future
• The Influence of the Cold War on the Vietnam Conflict
• The Interplay of Economic Interests and Colonial Ambitions in Indochina
• Religious and Ethnic Factors in the Conflict: Buddhism, Catholicism, and Cao Dai.

Military Strategies and Tactics

• Guerrilla Warfare and Its Impact on the Vietnam War
• The Tet Offensive: A Turning Point in the Conflict
• The Role of Media in Shaping Public Perception of the War
• Air Warfare: Operation Rolling Thunder and its Effectiveness
• The Use of Chemical Agents in the War: Agent Orange and Napalm
• The Battle of Ia Drang: Analyzing U.S. Troop Deployments
• The Ho Chi Minh Trail: A Supply Line that Shaped the War
• U.S. Strategic Bombing Campaigns and Their Consequences
• The Vietnamization Policy and Its Effects on the Conflict
• Evaluating the Role of Special Forces in Vietnam: Green Berets and Navy SEALs.

Social and Cultural Aspects of the War

• The Anti-War Movement in the United States: Origins, Key Figures, and Impact
• Media Coverage and Its Influence on Public Opinion
• Music of Protest: Folk, Rock, and the Counter-Culture Movement
• The Role of Women in the Vietnam War: Nurses, Volunteers, and Activists
• The Plight of Prisoners of War (POWs) and Missing in Action (MIAs)
• Protests and Resistance in Vietnam: Voices from the Viet Cong
• The Effects of PTSD on Veterans and Their Reintegration into Society
• Ethnic Minorities in the War: African Americans, Native Americans, and Hispanics
• The Impact of the Draft on American Society and Attitudes toward the War
• Artistic Expressions of the War: Literature, Film, and Photography.

Diplomacy and Peace Negotiations

• Paris Peace Accords: Negotiating an End to the Vietnam War
• The Role of Diplomacy in Resolving the Conflict: Successes and Failures
• Challenges and Obstacles to Peace Talks: Ideological, Political, and Military
• The Influence of Public Opinion on Peace Negotiations
• The Nixon-Kissinger Approach to Diplomacy: Realpolitik and Detente
• Assessing the Role of China and the Soviet Union in the Peace Process
• The Problem of Dual Recognition: North Vietnam and the Provisional Revolutionary Government
• Economic Sanctions and their Role in Negotiations
• The Impact of the Anti-War Movement on Diplomatic Efforts
• The Continuing Legacy of the Vietnam War in U.S. Foreign Policy.

Human Rights and War Crimes

• My Lai Massacre: Uncovering the Atrocities and Accountability
• Agent Orange and its Aftermath: Environmental and Human Health Impacts
• The Ethics of Targeted Killings and Assassinations during the War
• The Role of the International Red Cross and Humanitarian Efforts
• The Treatment of POWs in North Vietnamese Camps
• War Crimes Trials and the Pursuit of Justice: The Case of Lieutenant William Calley
• The Impact of the War on Children and Civilians: Orphans and Refugees
• War Crimes and Atrocities Committed by All Sides: A Balanced Perspective
• Examining the Legal and Moral Arguments of Bombing Civilian Targets
• The Ongoing Debate on War Crimes and Historical Reconciliation.

Impact and Aftermath of the Vietnam War

• Veterans’ Experiences and Challenges After the War: Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
• The Economic Impact of the War on Vietnam and the United States
• The Reconciliation Process between Vietnam and the United States
• The Legacy of the Vietnam War in U.S. Politics and Presidential Power
• The Vietnam War and Environmental Destruction: Deforestation and Agent Orange
• The Influence of the Vietnam War on Military Strategy and Doctrine
• The Vietnam War and the Emergence of the “Military-Industrial Complex”
• The Impact of the War on Asian-American Communities in the United States
• The Effects of the Vietnam War on American Public Opinion and Trust in Government
• The Emergence of Vietnam War Literature and its Cultural Significance.

The Role of Women in the Vietnam War

• Female Combatants in the Viet Cong: Roles and Contributions
• Nursing and Medical Care during the War: Women on the Frontlines
• Women’s Activism and Participation in the Peace Movement
• The Experience of American Military Nurses in Vietnam
• Women in Intelligence Agencies: Spies and Operatives
• The Impact of the War on Vietnamese Women: Challenges and Resilience
• Women as War Correspondents and Journalists
• Female Representation in the North Vietnamese Government and Army
• The Role of Women in the Anti-War Movement: Voices for Peace
• The Evolution of Gender Roles in Vietnamese Society during the War.

Intelligence and Counterintelligence

• The Role of the CIA and Other Intelligence Agencies in Vietnam
• Codebreaking and Communication Interception: Decrypting Enemy Messages
• Espionage and Double Agents in the Conflict: Aldrich Ames and Robert Hanssen
• Assessing the Effectiveness of Military Intelligence in Vietnam
• The Tet Offensive and Intelligence Failures: Lessons Learned
• Psychological Warfare and Propaganda: Deception in the Vietnam War
• The Phoenix Program: Intelligence-Led Counterinsurgency Efforts
• The Role of Signals Intelligence (SIGINT) in Shaping the War
• Intelligence Sharing between the United States and its Allies
• Evaluating the Role of Human Intelligence (HUMINT) in Gathering Information

Regional and Global Implications of the Vietnam War

• The Domino Theory and its Impact on U.S. Foreign Policy
• The Vietnam War’s Influence on Cold War Dynamics
• Vietnam as a Case Study in Nation-Building and Intervention
• The Impact of the Vietnam War on Southeast Asia: Regional Stability and Conflicts
• Assessing the Influence of the Vietnam War on Latin American Revolutionary Movements
• The Role of Australia and New Zealand in the Vietnam War: ANZUS Treaty Obligations
• China’s Involvement in the Vietnam War: Motives and Consequences
• The Soviet Union’s Support for North Vietnam: Political and Military Aims
• The Vietnam War and Africa: The Pan-Africanist Movement’s Response
• The Vietnam War and European Allies: NATO’s Dilemmas and Responses

Comparing the Vietnam War to Other Conflicts

• Vietnam War vs. Korean War: A Comparative Analysis of Strategies and Outcomes
• The Vietnam War and the Soviet-Afghan War: Lessons Learned and Repercussions
• Assessing the Similarities and Differences between the Vietnam and Iraq Wars
• Comparing Vietnam and World War II: The Role of Technology and Total War
• The Vietnam War and the Gulf War: Asymmetrical Warfare in Modern Conflicts
• The Vietnam War and the French-Algerian War: Colonial Legacies and Revolutions
• Vietnam War vs. The American Revolutionary War: Fighting for Independence
• The Vietnam War and the Falklands War: Island Conflicts and National Identity
• Comparing the Vietnam War to the Russo-Japanese War: Imperial Ambitions and Defeats
• The Vietnam War and the Spanish Civil War: International Interventions and Ideological Battles

You have now explored a vast array of Vietnam War research paper topics, spanning from the causes and background of the conflict to its far-reaching consequences on the global stage. By delving into these categories, you have the opportunity to uncover the multi-dimensional nature of the Vietnam War, analyze its intricacies, and grasp its profound implications. Whether you are fascinated by military strategies, diplomatic efforts, social aspects, or the aftermath, these topics will serve as a stepping stone to crafting an engaging and insightful research paper. Remember to select a topic that aligns with your interests, access credible sources, and stay objective in your analysis. Embark on your research journey with zeal, and let the knowledge you gain from these Vietnam War research paper topics contribute to a deeper understanding of this transformative period in history.

Vietnam War and Its Range of Research Paper Topics

The Vietnam War, spanning from 1955 to 1975, was a momentous conflict that not only reshaped the geopolitics of Southeast Asia but also left a profound impact on global history. Its intricate tapestry of political, military, social, and cultural dimensions provides a vast array of research paper topics for students studying history. Understanding the scope and significance of this war allows researchers to explore a myriad of intriguing themes that shed light on the complexities of human conflict, diplomacy, and societal transformation.

At the core of Vietnam War research lies the examination of its causes and background. Topics in this category delve into the historical underpinnings of the conflict, including the role of French colonialism in Vietnam, the rise of Vietnamese nationalism under the leadership of Ho Chi Minh, and the interplay of major powers like the United States and the Soviet Union in shaping the conflict’s trajectory. Investigating the roots of the war not only provides insights into the events that led to the outbreak of hostilities but also highlights the significance of broader historical contexts, such as the Cold War and the post-World War II era.

Military strategies and tactics employed during the Vietnam War form another intriguing avenue for research. The war’s unique nature, characterized by guerrilla warfare and asymmetrical tactics, challenges conventional notions of military engagements. Students can explore topics such as the Tet Offensive, which marked a turning point in the conflict, the use of psychological warfare and propaganda, and the effects of chemical agents like Agent Orange and napalm. Additionally, investigating the impact of media coverage and the role of journalists during the war sheds light on how public perception can influence the outcomes of armed conflicts.

The social and cultural aspects of the Vietnam War offer yet another captivating realm of research. The anti-war movement in the United States, with its origins in the counterculture of the 1960s, transformed public opinion and challenged the government’s war policy. Vietnam War research paper topics in this category can delve into the music of protest, analyzing how folk and rock songs became anthems for peace, as well as examining the impact of war on civilians, particularly women, children, and ethnic minorities. The experiences of veterans and the challenges they faced upon returning home, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), also provide fertile ground for exploration.

Diplomacy and peace negotiations during the Vietnam War open doors to study the intricacies of international relations and the complexities of conflict resolution. Vietnam War research paper topics may include an analysis of the Paris Peace Accords and the negotiations that led to a cease-fire, the role of third-party mediators, and the impact of public opinion on diplomatic efforts. Evaluating the challenges and obstacles faced during peace talks can offer valuable lessons on the difficulties of finding common ground in highly contentious and protracted conflicts.

Addressing issues of human rights and war crimes during the Vietnam War allows students to examine the darker aspects of armed conflicts. The My Lai Massacre, in which American soldiers killed unarmed Vietnamese civilians, represents a watershed moment in the war, raising questions about accountability and justice. Research topics in this category can explore the use of chemical agents like Agent Orange and its long-term environmental and health impacts, as well as the treatment of prisoners of war (POWs) and missing in action (MIAs). Analyzing war crimes and atrocities committed by all sides underscores the complexities of moral and legal judgments in times of war.

Beyond the active conflict, exploring the impact and aftermath of the Vietnam War provides a holistic understanding of its enduring legacy. Research topics in this area may focus on the experiences of veterans and the challenges they faced upon returning to civilian life, as well as the economic repercussions on both Vietnam and the United States. Assessing the ongoing reconciliation process between the two nations highlights the significance of post-war diplomacy and healing. The war’s environmental consequences, such as deforestation and the lingering effects of chemical warfare, also demand examination to better comprehend the far-reaching ecological impact of armed conflicts.

The Vietnam War’s influence extended beyond its immediate region, influencing the course of global politics and military strategy. Students can explore topics on the regional and global implications of the war, including its impact on the Cold War dynamics and the emergence of the “domino theory” as a guiding principle for U.S. foreign policy. Investigating the roles of other nations, such as China and the Soviet Union, in the conflict also illuminates the complexity of alliances and geopolitical strategies.

Moreover, comparing the Vietnam War to other historical conflicts enriches historical analysis and provides valuable insights into the dynamics of warfare. Vietnam War research paper topics in this category may explore the similarities and differences between the Vietnam War and the Korean War, the Soviet-Afghan War, the Iraq War, and other conflicts. Such comparative studies offer opportunities to evaluate the effectiveness of different military strategies, the impacts of international involvement, and the lasting legacies of various armed struggles.

In conclusion, the Vietnam War presents an expansive and diverse range of research paper topics that encompass politics, military strategy, social change, human rights, and global implications. As students embark on their research journey, they will uncover the multifaceted nature of this transformative conflict, gaining valuable insights into the complexities of war and its far-reaching consequences. By immersing themselves in the study of these Vietnam War research paper topics, students will not only enrich their understanding of history but also contribute to an ongoing dialogue about the enduring impact of the Vietnam War on the world stage.

How to Choose Vietnam War Research Paper Topics

Selecting a compelling and well-suited research paper topic is a crucial first step in crafting an engaging and insightful academic paper. As you explore the vast landscape of Vietnam War research topics, it is essential to choose a subject that aligns with your interests, expertise, and academic goals. This section offers expert guidance and ten essential tips to assist you in navigating the process of selecting the most suitable Vietnam War research paper topic. By following these recommendations, you will not only discover a topic that captivates your curiosity but also ensures that you have ample resources and relevant materials to support your investigation. Embark on this journey of exploration and analysis, and let your passion for history guide you toward a topic that allows you to make a meaningful contribution to the understanding of this transformative period in global history.

• Understand Your Interests and Expertise : Begin the process of selecting a research paper topic by reflecting on your personal interests and expertise. Think about the aspects of the Vietnam War that fascinate you the most, whether it be its historical origins, military strategies, cultural impact, or diplomatic efforts. Consider your previous coursework, readings, and discussions in history classes to identify areas that have captivated your attention. By choosing a topic that aligns with your interests and knowledge, you are more likely to stay engaged and motivated throughout the research and writing process.
• Focus on Specific Aspects or Time Periods : The Vietnam War spans two decades and encompasses a wide range of events and themes. To narrow down your research paper topic, consider focusing on specific aspects or time periods within the war. For example, you could explore the causes and consequences of a particular battle, the experiences of soldiers during a specific year, or the impact of a particular policy or strategy. Focusing on a specific aspect allows you to delve deeper into the subject matter and provide a more nuanced analysis of the historical context.
• Consider Relevance and Contemporary Implications : As you explore different research paper topics, consider the relevance of your chosen subject matter to contemporary issues and debates. How does the Vietnam War’s history connect to present-day challenges, such as conflict resolution, foreign policy, or social justice? Understanding the contemporary implications of your research topic not only adds relevance to your paper but also allows you to contribute to ongoing discussions and debates about historical legacies.
• Evaluate the Availability of Sources and Materials : Before finalizing your research paper topic, assess the availability of credible and reliable sources. Check whether there is sufficient literature, primary documents, and scholarly articles related to your chosen topic. A well-supported research paper requires access to a diverse range of sources to strengthen your arguments and provide a comprehensive analysis. Ensure that your topic has enough resources to support your research and avoid topics with limited or outdated information.
• Seek the Guidance of Your Professor or Instructor : Consulting with your professor or instructor can provide valuable insights and suggestions for your research paper topic. They can help you identify areas that need further exploration, recommend reputable sources, and guide you in refining your research questions. Professors often appreciate students who show enthusiasm and initiative in selecting topics related to course content, as it demonstrates a genuine interest in the subject matter.
• Look for Gaps in Existing Research : Research topics that address gaps in existing literature or challenge prevailing interpretations can make a significant contribution to historical scholarship. Investigate areas that have received less attention or have not been thoroughly explored in previous research. By shedding new light on understudied aspects of the Vietnam War, you can offer fresh insights and expand the existing body of knowledge.
• Balance Well-Known and Lesser-Known Topics : Consider balancing well-known topics with lesser-known or overlooked aspects of the Vietnam War. While popular subjects, such as the Tet Offensive or the anti-war movement, offer ample resources and discussions, exploring less familiar topics can yield unique and original research. By delving into lesser-known events, individuals, or policies, you can uncover hidden stories and bring new perspectives to the forefront.
• Analyze the Significance and Impact of the Chosen Topic : Assess the historical significance and broader impact of your chosen topic within the context of the Vietnam War. How did your topic influence the course of the war, the lives of people involved, or the historical narratives that emerged afterward? Understanding the broader implications of your research topic adds depth to your paper and allows you to contextualize its relevance within the larger historical framework.
• Choose Topics that Resonate with Current Events : Exploring research paper topics that resonate with current events and contemporary issues can infuse your study with relevance and broader societal implications. Consider how historical themes related to the Vietnam War connect to modern-day conflicts, international relations, or social movements. By drawing parallels between past and present, you can demonstrate the continued relevance of historical analysis in understanding present challenges.
• Stay Passionate and Motivated Throughout the Research Process : Above all, choose a Vietnam War research paper topic that ignites your passion and curiosity. A topic that genuinely excites you will sustain your motivation and dedication during the research process, even when faced with challenges or complexities. Your enthusiasm for the subject matter will shine through in your writing, making your research paper more engaging and impactful for your readers.

The process of selecting a research paper topic on the Vietnam War demands careful consideration, critical thinking, and a genuine interest in historical exploration. By following these ten essential tips, you can identify a topic that aligns with your interests, is well-supported by resources, and contributes to the existing body of knowledge on this transformative period in global history. Whether you choose to delve into well-known events, unearth lesser-known stories, or investigate the contemporary relevance of historical themes, your research endeavor will enrich your understanding of the Vietnam War and its enduring impact on the world. Embrace the opportunity to contribute to historical scholarship, and embark on a journey of discovery that will leave a lasting legacy in the field of history.

How to Write a Vietnam War Research Paper

Once you have selected a compelling Vietnam War research paper topic, the next step is to embark on the writing process. Writing a research paper on the Vietnam War requires careful planning, thorough research, and a structured approach to effectively present your findings and analysis. This section will provide you with expert guidance and ten essential tips to help you craft a well-organized, insightful, and compelling research paper that showcases your understanding of this significant historical period.

• Develop a Clear Thesis Statement : Craft a concise and focused thesis statement that outlines the main argument or central point of your research paper. Your thesis statement should reflect the specific aspect of the Vietnam War you are exploring and the main conclusions you aim to draw from your research. It provides the backbone of your paper and guides readers on what to expect from your analysis.
• Organize Your Research : Organize your research materials and sources systematically to facilitate efficient writing. Create an outline or structure for your paper, dividing it into sections or chapters based on the main points you want to cover. This organization ensures a logical flow of ideas and helps you avoid redundancy or confusion in your writing.
• Conduct In-Depth Research : Thoroughly investigate primary and secondary sources related to your chosen topic. Use reputable academic journals, books, historical documents, interviews, and other reliable materials to support your arguments. Balance your research between different perspectives and viewpoints to provide a comprehensive and well-rounded analysis.
• Incorporate Strong Evidence : Support your arguments with strong and relevant evidence from your research. Use direct quotes, statistics, and specific examples from primary sources and scholarly literature to validate your claims. Cite your sources accurately using the appropriate citation style (e.g., APA, MLA, Chicago/Turabian) to give credit to the original authors and avoid plagiarism.
• Analyze and Interpret Findings : Analyze the evidence you have gathered and interpret its significance within the context of your research question. Explain how the evidence supports your thesis and the broader implications of your findings. Provide critical insights and thoughtful interpretations to demonstrate your understanding of the Vietnam War and its complexities.
• Develop Well-Structured Paragraphs : Organize your ideas into well-structured paragraphs that each focus on a single topic or argument. Begin each paragraph with a clear topic sentence that introduces the main point, followed by supporting evidence and analysis. Use transitions to connect your paragraphs and maintain a smooth flow of ideas.
• Use Engaging and Clear Language : Write in a clear and concise manner, avoiding jargon or unnecessary complexity. Use engaging language to captivate your readers and maintain their interest throughout your research paper. Avoid long, convoluted sentences and opt for straightforward and coherent writing.
• Provide Historical Context : Offer sufficient historical context to contextualize your research and help readers understand the significance of your findings. Explain the broader historical background, events, and developments that led to the Vietnam War. Providing context enhances the readers’ comprehension of your paper and reinforces the relevance of your research.
• Address Counterarguments : Acknowledge and address counterarguments or alternative viewpoints related to your research topic. Demonstrating an awareness of differing opinions strengthens your paper and showcases your ability to engage in scholarly discourse. Present counterarguments objectively and explain why your research supports your own thesis.
• Conclude with Impact : Craft a strong and impactful conclusion that summarizes your main findings, restates your thesis, and reflects on the broader significance of your research. Avoid introducing new information in the conclusion, and instead, leave readers with a lasting impression of your research and its contributions to the understanding of the Vietnam War.

Writing a research paper on the Vietnam War is a challenging yet rewarding endeavor that allows you to deepen your understanding of this transformative period in history. By following the ten essential tips outlined in this section, you can approach the writing process with confidence and structure, ensuring that your research paper is well-organized, insightful, and compelling. Remember to develop a clear thesis statement, conduct thorough research, and incorporate strong evidence to support your arguments. Analyze and interpret your findings, provide historical context, and address counterarguments to showcase your depth of understanding. With engaging and clear language, present your research in a coherent and impactful manner. As you conclude your paper, leave readers with a lasting impression of your research’s significance and contributions to the field of historical scholarship. Embrace this opportunity to share your knowledge and insights, and let your Vietnam War research paper be a testament to your passion for history and commitment to academic excellence.

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As students delve into the intricate history of the Vietnam War, they encounter the challenge of crafting comprehensive and insightful research papers on this pivotal period. The Vietnam War offers a wealth of topics to explore, ranging from military strategies and political developments to social and cultural impacts. However, the process of researching, analyzing, and presenting findings can be daunting and time-consuming. At iResearchNet, we understand the significance of this historical era and the importance of delivering well-crafted research papers that meet academic standards. As a leading provider of academic writing services, we offer custom Vietnam War research paper writing services to assist students in producing exceptional papers that showcase their understanding, analytical skills, and expertise.

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Studying the Vietnam War

How the scholarship has changed..

Two American soldiers in Pleiku, South Vietnam, home to an American airbase in May 1967.

—Everett Collection / Alamy Stock Photo

These are boom times for historians of the Vietnam War. One reason is resurgent public interest in a topic that had lost some of its salience in American life during the 1990s. At that time, the end of the Cold War and surging confidence about U.S. power seemed to diminish the relevance of long ago controversies and the need to draw lessons from America’s lost war. But then came the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq: grueling conflicts that, in key respects, resembled the war in Southeast Asia three decades earlier. Critics complained that George W. Bush had mired the nation in “another Vietnam,” and military strategists focused anew on the earlier war for clues about fighting insurgents in distant, inhospitable places. For their part, historians seized the opportunity to reinterpret Vietnam for a younger generation and especially to compare and contrast the Vietnam conflict with America’s new embroilments.

Soldiers of The Army of the Republic of Vietnam in 1968.

—Gado Images / Alamy Stock Photo

Marine D. R. Howe treats PFC. D. A. Crum's wounds during the battle for Hue on June 2, 1968.

—US Marines Photo / Alamy Stock Photo

More recently, intense public interest in the war has been sustained by fiftieth anniversaries of the war’s most harrowing years for the United States. Publishers have used these occasions to release high-profile histories, including Mark Bowden’s widely reviewed  Hue 1968 , a sprawling account of the largest battle between U.S. and Communist forces during the 1968 Tet Offensive. The media are taking part as well. During 2017 and early 2018, the  New York Times  is publishing an online series of approximately 130 op-eds focused on the events of 1967. The biggest moment of all is due in late September: the premiere of the much anticipated 18-hour documentary on the war from Ken Burns and Lynn Novick, an event certain to inspire new waves of commentary about Vietnam and to rekindle debate in living rooms across the nation.

But there is another, less noticed reason for renewed attention to the Vietnam War: Spectacular new source material has transformed the possibilities for writing about the subject. Some of this new documentation has emerged from U.S. archives as a result of declassification in the last decade or so. Records from the Nixon and Ford presidencies (1969–1977), especially, are making it possible for historians to write with more confidence and in greater detail about the final stages of U.S. involvement in Vietnam, long a relatively neglected era of the war.

Indeed, the last phase of U.S. military operations has recently spawned an especially contentious debate on one of the most fundamental controversies about Vietnam: Could the United States and its South Vietnamese allies have won the war if the American public had not turned against it? Provocative new works by Lewis Sorley and Gregory Daddis lead the way in arguing for and against, respectively, the notion that the U.S. military could have secured overall victory, if not for crumbling political support within the United States.

Meanwhile, writing about every phase of American decision-making has been enhanced by the release of audio recordings that U.S. presidents from Franklin D. Roosevelt to Richard Nixon made of important meetings, telephone conversations, or both. Because these often convey the mood and emotions of senior policymakers, they are invaluable in helping historians gain a richer understanding of the motives that underlay decision-making about the war. It is now possible, for example, to hear Lyndon Johnson’s anguish about escalating the U.S. role in 1964 and 1965. LBJ’s doubts, along with his obvious awareness of the problems that would beset U.S. forces if he escalated the war in Vietnam, have led many historians to scrap the once dominant idea that leaders in Washington, ignorant of Vietnamese politics and blinded by Cold War assumptions about the dangers of communism, walked step-by-step into a “quagmire” that no one had anticipated. The old question—How could Americans have been so ignorant?—has been replaced by a new one: Why did U.S. leaders commit the nation to war despite abundant doubts and accurate knowledge of the obstacles they would confront?

The most impressive new source material, however, has emerged from countries other than the United States. As recently as 30 years ago, historians were limited to U.S. and West European sources, making it impossible to write with authority about Vietnam itself or decision-making by North Vietnam’s allies, China, the Soviet Union, and Eastern European nations. Everything changed with the end of the Cold War. East European nations went furthest in opening their archives to researchers. For its part, the Russian government opened some Soviet-era records, most notably the records of the Communist party. China and Vietnam, where the end of the Cold War did not produce dramatic political change, lagged behind, yet even those governments gradually permitted access to some records from the Cold War years. Most strikingly, the Vietnamese government opened troves of material amassed by the defunct regime in Saigon that ruled below the seventeenth parallel during the heyday of U.S. involvement.

The result has been a large and growing body of new work by ambitious and linguistically skilled scholars eager to explore fresh dimensions of the war. Historians Mark Philip Bradley, Robert K. Brigham, William J. Duiker, Christopher Goscha, David S. Marr, and Sophie Quinn-Judge led the way in examining Vietnam’s experience, drawing on newly available Vietnamese sources to produce pathbreaking studies around the turn of the century. A younger generation of scholars, most of whom wrote dissertations rooted in extensive research in Vietnam, has built on those accomplishments and even, for the first time, begun delving into decision-making by the Communist government in Hanoi. Meanwhile, historians of Soviet and Chinese foreign policy, most notably Ilya Gaiduk, Chen Jian, and Qiang Zhai, have used new documentation to examine the complex relationships between the Vietnamese Communists and their superpower patrons.

Unquestionably, archival openings in Russia and China, just as in Vietnam, remain partial and selective, leaving studies rooted in newly accessible material—stunning as it may be—highly susceptible to debate and revision as more documentation becomes available. Yet, measured against the near impossibility of doing this kind of work just three decades ago, historians have made remarkable progress toward rethinking the Vietnam War as an episode not just in U.S. history but also in Vietnamese and world history. Historians, in short, increasingly appreciate the war for what it was at the time: a multisided conflict involving numerous Vietnamese and international actors and driven by extraordinarily complicated and shifting motives. 

What precisely has this new research in non-U.S. sources revealed thus far? Three examples point to the variety and significance of the new discoveries. First, studies of Chinese foreign policy have revealed details of North Vietnam’s dependence on its mighty neighbor to the north in the years before the Cultural Revolution, which greatly diminished China’s ambitions abroad. Despite historical tensions between Vietnam and China, newly available sources show definitively that Chinese military helped train and advise Vietnamese Communist forces from as early as 1950 and played an especially pivotal role in the 1954 Battle of Dien Bien Phu, the Vietnamese victory that ended French colonialism and dealt a major blow to the West in the Cold War.

More strikingly, new documents clarify the vast amounts of equipment and even manpower that China provided to North Vietnam during the later fighting that involved U.S. combat forces. According to historian Qiang Zhai, China sent everything from military gear and weapons to table tennis balls, playing cards, sewing needles, and vegetable seed under a series of agreements with North Vietnam. At the same time, Qiang Zhai asserts, a total of 320,000 Chinese soldiers served in North Vietnam between June 1965 and March 1968, peaking at 170,000 during 1967. To be sure, Chinese forces were not assigned combat roles. But Zhai observes that they enabled North Vietnam to send more of its own forces to southern battlefields by performing valuable functions such as repairing bridges and rail lines, building and relocating factories, and manning antiaircraft guns. Such tasks could, of course, be hazardous, not least because of U.S. bombing of some parts of North Vietnam. According to Zhai’s sources, 1,100 Chinese soldiers died in North Vietnam and another 4,200 were wounded.

President Lyndon B. Johnson visits with U.S. troops on his trip to Vietnam in October 1966.

—LBJ Library

Second, new sources from Vietnam are exposing the complexity of decision-making among Communist leaders in Hanoi. For many years, historians assumed that North Vietnamese leaders marched in lockstep and permitted no dissent. This view was sustained in part by the belief that the regime in Hanoi was totalitarian to its core and utterly subservient to its most powerful leaders, above all Ho Chi Minh. Recent discoveries have, however, called all of this into question. For one thing, historians Lien-Hang Nguyen and Pierre Asselin have revealed that Ho Chi Minh—long assumed to have been the preeminent North Vietnamese leader all the way to his death in 1969—in fact, lost a great deal of influence around 1960.

The pivotal figure thereafter was Le Duan, a Southern-born revolutionary who remained relatively obscure to Western historians until recent years. Thanks to recent publications, though, it’s clear that Le Duan, a firebrand eager to throw enormous blood and resources into the effort to reunify his country under Communist leadership, dominated decision-making in Hanoi during the peak years of American involvement. Understanding the importance of Le Duan and the hawks who surrounded him helps enormously to appreciate the escalatory pressures that operated on the Vietnamese side, even as Lyndon Johnson and his aides stepped up the American commitment in the mid 1960s. We can now see that leaders on both sides rejected diplomacy and banked on military victory, a tragic convergence of hawkishness that fueled escalation.

The dominance of the hawks in Hanoi does not mean, though, that there were no contrary voices once they were in the driver’s seat. Scholars working with Vietnamese sources have discovered evidence of substantial factionalism within the Hanoi regime throughout the late 1950s and 1960s. Broadly speaking, some high-ranking North Vietnamese leaders, including Ho Chi Minh, prioritized consolidation of Communist rule above the seventeenth parallel and were wary of major expenditures of lives and treasure to bring about reunification. Others, including Le Duan, strongly favored reunification—even at the cost of a major war likely to draw in the United States—over all other North Vietnamese priorities. New studies of the war show that North Vietnamese policy flowed from the interplay of these two points of view. During the late 1950s, the moderate faction held sway, and the result was a period of relative peace in Vietnam. With the triumph of the hawks, however, Hanoi embraced a new war and transformed North Vietnam into a full-fledged police state in order to keep the skeptics at bay.

Third, the new scholarship has shed valuable new light on the nature of the South Vietnamese state that endured from its beginning in 1954 to its collapse in 1975. Was South Vietnam merely a puppet of the United States, an artificial creation doomed to fall apart whenever Washington withdrew its economic and military assistance? Or was it a viable nation with a legitimate government that, absent the onslaught by northern Communists, could have endured as a stable, pro-Western entity into the indefinite future? For many years, the debate was more a matter of polemics than historical inquiry. Opponents of the war argued that the United States hitched itself to a hopeless Potemkin experiment led by venal, authoritarian leaders, while supporters saw South Vietnam as a beleaguered young nation that, for all its faults, was doing its best to resist Communist aggression.

Unsurprisingly, much of the new scholarship rooted in Vietnamese sources has argued for a gray area between these two extremes. Historians such as Edward Miller and Jessica Chapman focus especially on the late 1950s and early 1960s, suggesting that the South Vietnamese government headed by Ngo Dinh Diem possessed a degree of legitimacy and popular support unrecognized by Diem’s critics at the time or since. To be sure, they also point out the government’s inability to expand its base further among the South Vietnamese population. But they show that the South Vietnamese state possessed a remarkable amount of agency that its leaders might have exercised differently. All in all, these historians have helped restore the Vietnamese to the center of their own history.

What do all these revelations mean for how we should understand the Vietnam War in its totality? Clearly, the new work in non-American sources holds implications for primordial questions about the U.S. role in Vietnam. Was the U.S. commitment to Vietnam justified by any genuine security interests in the region? Why did the United States fail to achieve its objectives despite monumental effort? Might different decisions by American leaders have led to a different outcome? Knowing more about the international and Vietnamese contexts makes it far more possible than ever before to form authoritative opinions about questions that cannot logically be answered fully on the basis of U.S. sources alone. But the new work also underscores the possibility of addressing questions that transcend the American experience and viewing the Vietnam War within the context of, for example, decolonization, the international Communist movement, and the Sino-Soviet split. The good news is that, given the range of new and still-to-be-released source material and robust interest in the war four decades after it ended, historians are sure to move forward energetically on both tracks. The boom times may stick around for a while.

Mark Atwood Lawrence teaches at the University of Texas in Austin. He is author of Assuming the Burden: Europe and the American Commitment to War in Vietnam and The Vietnam War: A Concise International History .

Funding information

In addition to a  $1 million production grant  to GWETA for  The Vietnam War , NEH has supported, with a  $300,000 grant , public discussions nationwide of this difficult subject and the epic documentary from Ken Burns and Lynn Novick. NEH has also funded numerous projects on the Vietnam War as a subject of ongoing scholarship, including the work of two scholars mentioned in this article: Edward Miller, a professor at Dartmouth who received a  summer stipend  supporting research and writing based on field work conducted in Vietnam, and Lien-Hang Nguyen, who received a  Public Scholar grant  to support work on a book for a general audience about the Tet Offensive of 1968. As major anniversaries of the Vietnam War appear on the calendar, NEH has also supported a number of projects documenting oral histories of the Vietnam War, including a project at the  Catawba County Library  in North Carolina interviewing Hmong immigrants who were refugees from Laos during the Vietnam War and a project with the Maryland Humanities Council working with students who learn to take oral histories from Maryland veterans of the Vietnam War. “LBJ’s War,” a series of podcasts from Public Radio International that has been praised recently in the media, was supported by a  $150,000 grant .

Republication statement

This article is available for unedited republication, free of charge, using the following credit: “Originally published as 'Studying the Vietnam War: How the Scholarship Has Changed' in the Fall 2017 issue of  Humanities  magazine, a publication of the National Endowment for the Humanities.”  Please email us  if you are republishing it or have any questions.

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80 Vietnam War Essay Topics & Examples

Looking for Vietnam war essay topics? Being the largest conflict in the US history, Vietnam war is definitely worth analyzing.

• 🔝 Top 10 Essay Topics
• 💡 Essay: How to Write
• 🏆 Best Essay Examples & Topic Ideas
• 💣 Most Interesting Topics
• 🔍 Research Topics & Questions

Why did the US lose the Vietnam war? Who won the war and how did that happen? There are many questions about the conflict that wait to be answered. Other options for your Vietnam war essay are to focus on the US involvement or talk about the lessons of the conflict.

Whether you are planning to write an argumentative essay, research paper, or thesis on the Vietnam war, this article will be helpful. Here we’ve collected top Vietnam war research questions, titles. Essay examples are also added to add to your inspiration.

🔝 Top 10 Vietnam War Essay Topics

• Vietnam war: the causes
• US involvement in the Vietnam war
• Vietnam war: the key participants
• The causes of the conflict in Vietnam
• Gulf of Tonkin incident and its role in the Vietnam war
• Why did the US lose the Vietnam war?
• War crimes in the cause of the conflict in Vietnam
• Vietnam war: the role of women
• Weapons and technology in the Vietnam war
• Vietnam war and its influence on popular culture

💡 Vietnam War Essay: How to Write

Chemical warfare, civilian peace protests, and an overwhelming number of casualties are all central circumstances of a Vietnamese-American 19-year conflict that garnered attention all over the world.

Reflecting all these topics in a Vietnam War essay is essential to writing an excellent paper, as well as other structural and informational points. In the prewriting stages:

• Research your issue. Doing so will not only help you choose among various Vietnam War essay topics but also help you start assembling a list of sources that can be of use. Compiling a bibliography early on will allow you to gauge how well covered your subject is and whether you can approach it from different viewpoints. Use various book and journal titles to give your work academic credibility.
• Write a Vietnam War essay outline. This action will help you distribute the weight of your ideas evenly between sub-themes. In turn, doing so will allow you to create a smooth flowing, interconnected narrative of whichever issue you choose.
• Compose a title for your paper. Vietnam War essay titles should be both reflective of their author’s stance and representative of the chosen methodological approach. Since your title is the first thing a potential reader sees, it should grab their attention in the best way.
• Read available sample essays to see which tools and techniques may work in your own paper. While plagiarism is punishable in the academic world, there are no repercussions for getting inspiration or pretending to grade an essay for yourself. Good examples may be just the thing you need to write an excellent paper yourself!

Now you are ready to begin writing. Layering your paper with the appropriate information is only one aspect of essay writing, as you should also:

• Begin your introduction by placing a Vietnam War essay hook in it. This catch can be a remarkable piece of information, a quote from a famous person, or an opposing viewpoint on the subject. Whichever you choose, placing a hook allows you to interest your readers and secure their interest for the duration of your paper.
• Use appropriate terminology. A war-related paper may call for an in-depth understanding of technology, while an ideology related one requires more event-related knowledge. Choose your words according to the specifics of your issue and use them to write a comprehensive and well-rounded essay.
• Understand the cause and effect war environment. Clearly define the links between events and make sure your audience understands all the intricacies of the issue. A timeline, written by you or found online, should help you trace these connections, creating an interflowing essay.
• Recognize the effect of seemingly background events. The recognition of a soldier’s civil rights and the rise of a movement that called for American citizens to return to their home continent is not battlefield-related but greatly impacted politics regarding the issue. Remember that there may be connections between seemingly unrelated problems, and finding them is your goal as an essayist.
• Stick to your Vietnam War essay prompt and the received instructions. Ignoring the specified word count in favor of drafting a more extensive coverage of the problem is not worth losing a grade on a suburb essay.

Always check the rubric that your instructor provided to receive good grades.

Writing an essay giving your trouble? Zero starting ideas? Head over to IvyPanda and get your essay written in no time!

🏆 Best Vietnam War Essay Examples & Topic Ideas

• Similarities and Differences Between Korean and Vietnam Wars There were also several differences such as the way of development of the conflicts where the Korean War was during three years, and the Vietnam War was the prolonged struggle, the participation of the Chinese […]
• Music as a Weapon During the Vietnam War Music to the soldiers in Vietnam acted as a tool to remind all troops of the responsibility that they had taken by being on the battlefield.
• The Vietnam War in the “Child of Two Worlds” Therefore, in the future, he is like to live in the outside world rather than in the inside one. Therefore, Lam wants to start a new life in the US and forgets his roots, which […]
• Causes and Effects of the Vietnamese War To the U.S.the war was a loss, because the reunion of South and North Vietnamese citizens marked the end of the war, hence U.S.’s undivided support for the southern region yielded nothing, apart from numerous […]
• Why Did the United States Lose the Vietnam War? The Office of the Secretary of Defense had become demoralized due to the events that had taken place; hence, it was unwilling to escalate the war further due to the decline of the army troops […]
• The Use of Agent Orange in the Vietnam War The Association of American Advancement of science prompted the US government to allow investigations into the effects of Agent Orange in Vietnam in 1968.
• Vietnam War: History and Facts of War That Began in 1959 The Second Indochina War began in 1959, five years after the division of the country, according to the Geneva Agreement. South Vietnam’s troops failed to substitute American soldiers, and in 1974 the peace agreement was […]
• “The Killing Zone: My Life in the Vietnam War” by Downs At the very outset, it was clear to the soldiers that the war in Indochina was not being conducted in terms of the glory myths on which they had been raised. The second part of […]
• How the Vietnam War Polarized American Society It galvanized the enemy and opponents of the war in both Vietnam and America and led many to question the ethics of the campaigns.
• Protests and Music of the Vietnam War As the public absorbed the announcement, and the truth behind the war, they were angered by the fact that many American lives had been lost in the war, and the fact that the government was […]
• Vietnam War in the “Platoon” Movie by Oliver Stone In the context of the war, the confrontation between two non-commissioned officers, the cruel-hearted Barnes and the humane Elias, is depicted.
• Political and Social Forces During and After the Vietnam War The political forces in the aftermath of the Vietnam War centered around balancing between the Cold War and the maintenance of public support.
• Researching and Analysis of the Vietnam War A Chinese leader inspired by the Soviet Union and the Chinese, Ho Chi Minh, formed a union to aid the resistance against the French occupiers in Vietnam and the Japanese.
• The Vietnam War and the Tet Offensive In this presentation, the discussion of the impact of Tet Offensive on the United States and the role of media in military events will be discussed.
• The Artistic Legacy of Maya Lin: A Cultural Response to the Vietnam War Major confrontations as the signs of a shift in cultural perspectives and attitudes have always defined the development of art, the Vietnam War being one of the infamous examples of the phenomenon.
• The Vietnam War: Diplomatic Mechanisms Connected With the USA The onset of the Vietnam War exposed the vagaries in the American political and administrative systems in terms of issues of diplomacy, presidency, and even in cultural and social matters.
• “The Green Berets” Film About the Vietnam War According to the plot, one American journalist named George Beckworth is to cover the topic of the military involvement of the USA in this war.
• Vietnam War: David Halberstam’s “The Making of a Quagmire” In his account, the author of the book The Making of a Quagmire: America and Vietnam during the Kennedy Era, is categorical about the dealings of the Americans in the Vietnamese affair.
• “A Time of War: The United States and Vietnam” by Robert D. Schulzinger These events relate to the activities and interests of the Americans, the French and Vietnamese which preceded the beginning and the aftermath of the war.
• Interview Report: Memories of the Vietnam War Locker about the way he happened to take part in the Vietnam War, he said that he was drafted but, anyway, at that time he thought that it was his destiny as he wanted to […]
• Ho Chi Minh’s Influence in the Vietnam War He was the leader of the Vietnam independence movement and established the Democratic Republic of Vietnam which was governed by the communists.
• How the Vietnam War Influenced the Iraq War? During the Vietnam era, the neo-conservatism movement expanded due to the political polarization occurring in the country between the anti-war, anti-American sentiments of the counterculture and neo-cons who championed blind patriotism.
• Impact of the Vietnam War and Results of the Cold War It galvanized the enemy and opponents of the war in both Vietnam and America and led many to question the ethics of the campaigns.

💣 Most Interesting Vietnam War Topics

• The Vietnam War in American History Since early fifties the government of the United States began to pay special attention to Vietnam and political situation in this country, because, it was one of the most important regions in the Southeast Asia.
• How TV Showed the Vietnam War At the dawn of television media emergence, the coverage of the Vietnam War was subjective as the opinion of the public was manipulated by the government to get the desired reaction from the Americans to […]
• French Involvement in Vietnam War Even though in the overwhelming majority of cases, the author focuses attention on the history of Vietnam since the Involvement of the French troops in the nineteenth century, he also gives background information as to […]
• Vietnam War Perceptions of African American Leaders Externally, the country was embroiled in an unpopular war in Vietnam and internally, rejection of the ‘establishment’ typified by the ‘Counter-culture movement’ and the Black Civil rights movement was gaining momentum.
• Vietnamese Culture and Traditions: The Role in Vietnam War It was this division that left America with little understanding of how the rest of the world lives and how the country can effectively help others even in times of war.
• My Lai Massacre During Vietnam War American soldiers of Company assaulted the hamlet of My Lai part of the village of Son My in Quang Ngai province of South Vietnam on 16 March 1968.
• American History During the Vietnam War In the quest to figure out the events that took place in the history of America, I had an opportunity to interview a close family friend who was one of the African American soldiers during […]
• China-Vietnam Opposition or the Third Vietnam War The Korean War, numerous military operations in the Middle East, and the Vietnam War were preconditioned by the clash of ideologies and parties unwillingness to make a compromise.
• Vietnam War vs. War on Terror in the Middle East The starting point for the War on Terror is considered to be the 2001 attacks on the World Trade Center and other locations which led to the deaths of thousands.
• Vietnam War: The Results of Flawed Containment The neo-orthodox perspective on the war in Vietnam consisted of criticism towards United States policies in the sense that civilian and military leaders of the country were unsuccessful in developing achievable and realistic plans with […]
• Vietnam War and American Revolution Comparison Consequently, the presence of these matters explains the linkage of the United States’ war in Vietnam and the American Revolution to Mao’s stages of the insurgency.
• Vietnam War Experiences in David Vancil’s Poems For these reasons, the majority of the works devoted to the given issue tend to demonstrate the horrors of war and factors that impacted people.
• America in Vietnam War: Effects of Involvement However, the involvement of America in the war has made other countries around the world to question its principle of morality.
• African American Soldiers During Vietnam War In the 1960s and 70s, African Americans battled racial discrimination at home in the United States but also faced similar if not the same tension as a member of the Armed Forces while fighting in […]
• Civil Rights Movement and the Vietnam War The Vietnam War caused unintended consequences for the civil rights movements of the 1960s as it awakened the African-Americans’ consciousness on the racism and despotism that they experienced in the United States.
• Contribution of Women in the Vietnam War Special emphasis will be given to nurses because without their contribution, so many soldiers would have lost their lives or suffered from deteriorating conditions in the War Some of the nurses in the Vietnam War […]
• Photos of Vietnam War The role of the media in the Vietnam War also raises issues of what the media ought to censor and report to the public.
• The American Strategic Culture in Vietnam War Spector further emphasizes that the involvement of the United States in both phases of the Vietnam War was due to Harry Truman, the then president of the United States, who did not support communism, but […]
• Hanoi and Washington: The Vietnam War The Vietnam War was a conflict that was military in nature, occurred between the years 1954 and 1975, and was between the communists and the non-communists.
• America’s Failure in Promoting Its Politic in Vietnam Existing literature purports that, part of America’s agenda in Vietnam was to stop the spread of communism and in other literature excerpts, it is reported that, America was persuading North Vietnam to stop supporting the […]
• Vietnam War in the Book “The Things They Carried” by Tim O’Brien The Irony of being at war is that Peace and conflict are both inevitable; it is the way we handle either of the two that determines our opinion of life in general both in the […]
• Anti-War Movement and American Views on the Vietnam War The fact that people started to take part in demonstrations and openly protest any drafting and involvement of the United States in the war, created even more attention towards the Vietnam Conflict.
• How Did the Media Shape Americans’ Perceptions of the Vietnam War? At the heart of this war, the media is believed to have shaped the Americans perception about the war. Technology in this moment made it possible for television to film some incidents in the war […]

🔍 Vietnam War Research Topics & Questions

• The Vietnam War: Presidents Eisenhower and Kennedy Leadership Roles On November 1, 1995, Eisenhower’s action to give military training to the government of South Vietnam marked the official start of the U.S.involvement in the Vietnamese conflict.
• The Vietnam War Causes The aftermath of the Second World War had the South Vietnam controlled by the French and the North Vietnam controlled by Viet Minh.
• The Vietnam War: A Clash of Viewpoints With the help of the most realistic descriptions and the vivid pictures of woes that soldiers had to take in the course of the battles, the author makes the people sink into the mind of […]
• China’s Support for North Vietnam in the Vietnam War As of the time of the war, the capital city of South Vietnam was Saigon while that of the North was Hanoi.
• The Role of Women in the Vietnam War For example, women in the Navy Nurse Corps and Army Nurse Corp were sent to take part in the Vietnam War and the Korean War.
• Appy, C. and Bloom, A., Vietnam War Mythology and the Rise of Public Cynicism, 49-73 The first myth is that the intervention of the US in the Vietnam War was devoid of any political interests and colonial based ambition contrary to that of the French.
• Vietnam Women Soldiers in the Vietnam War and Life Change After the War In 1968, the North Vietnamese and the Viet Cong forces attacked all the major cities of South Vietnam and even the US embassy followed where the war could not stop but in the year 1973 […]
• Vietnam War: The Battle Where There Could Be No Winners Inflamed by the ideas of the patriotic behavior and the mission of protecting the interests of the native land, the American soldiers were eager to start the battle.
• The Gulf of Tonkin Resolution of 1964 Is a Turning Point in Vietnam War The Gulf of Tonkin Resolution that occurred in August 7, 1964, was one of the major turning points in the United States military involvement into the flow of the Vietnam War.
• The Vietnam War’s and Student’s Unrest Connection An example of such protests were held by the by the University of Washington during the national strikes that took an approximate one week as a reaction to the Kent University shootings and a culmination […]
• Vietnam War: John Kerry’s Role Kerry’s actions during the Vietnam war that eventually led to his acquisition of the Purple Heart is a as a result of his ability to stop the actions of the enemy as evident in their […]
• Views on Vietnamese War in the Revisionism School Though United States did not involve itself into the war in order to break the dominance of Soviet Union, it wanted to gain politically and economically.
• Stories From the Vietnam War In the dissonance of opinions on the Vietnam War, it appears reasonable to turn to the first-hand experiences of the veterans and to draw real-life information from their stories.
• Concepts of the Vietnam War The fear to go to Vietnam and participate in a war that many believed America will inevitably lose, continued to engulf their life even more.
• Analysis of the Vietnam War Timeline 1961-64 In essence, the analysis of JWPs in this war would entail critical exploration of the jus in bello, with the aim of determining the combatants and non-combatants, and this is important in the sense that […]
• Politics in the 1960s: Vietnam War, Bay of Pigs Invasion, Berlin Wall However, in recent years following the collapse of the Soviet Union between1980 1990 and the opening of Vietnam to the outside world in the same period it is possible to understand the motives of both […]
• The Vietnam War Outcomes The Vietnam War was and is still considered the longest deployment of the U. In conclusion, both the U.S.and the Vietnam governments have a lot to ponder regarding the outcome of the Vietnam War.
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The Vietnam War: 50 Years (and More) Later

The fiftieth anniversary of the Vietnam War is somewhat misleading: The US had been involved in Vietnam for well over a decade already by 1965

On March 8, 1965, US combat troops landed in South Vietnam, marking a formal beginning to ten years of war that would ultimately cost more than 58,000 American lives and over 2,000,000 Vietnamese lives. But this 50th anniversary is somewhat misleading; The US had been involved in Vietnam for well over a decade already by 1965.

The United States provided much of the funding for the French in their failed attempt to regain their Indochinese colony in the late 1940s and early 1950s. The US then assisted the government of South Vietnam against North Vietnam when the former colony was partitioned at the Geneva Conference in 1954. There were 900 US military advisors in South Vietnam in the late 1950s, and 16,000 by the end of 1963.

Writing on the twentieth-fifth anniversary of the “fall of Saigon,” George Hopkins said “that we are no closer to a consensus on the causes, phases, strategy and tactics, or consequences of that war than we were in 1975.” One could easily say the same thing in 2015. Hopkins outlines the “radical, liberal, and conservative” interpretive perspectives “which reflected the main divergent viewpoints during the war and after the war” and largely still do.

How did popular culture respond? In terms of movies and television, usually cautiously, and often not until the war was over. H. Bruce Franklin argues that the original Star Trek television series (broadcast September 1966 to June 1969) was right in the middle of the cultural war over Vietnam, displacing “the Vietnam War in time and space.”Franklin dissects four episodes that speak directly to the ongoing conflict at home and abroad (“Bones, do you remember the twentieth-century brush wars on the Asian continent? Two giant powers involved, much like the Klingons and ourselves.”) as the show’s makers evolved from support of the government and distrust of the anti-war movement to signing statements against the war after the Tet Offensive of 1968.

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What has long been missing in many American representations and discussions of the war are the Vietnamese people. Ang Chen Guan analyses the North Vietnamese perspective in the crucial years before US combat troops arrived. The wider context of the Indochinese peninsula, including Laos and Cambodia, gets its due here as well. What a one-time enemy was thinking and doing may be one of the most beneficial contributions to historical debate.

Editor’s Note: This story was amended to capitalize “Vietnam War” in the subheading.

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Looking Back on the Vietnam War: Twenty-First-Century Perspectives.

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Heike Raphael-Hernandez, Looking Back on the Vietnam War: Twenty-First-Century Perspectives., Journal of American History , Volume 105, Issue 2, September 2018, Page 468, https://doi.org/10.1093/jahist/jay264

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The editors of this collection have assembled eleven essays that take a fresh look at the legacy of the Vietnam War. Since the 1990s, one can observe a renewed scholarly interest in the Vietnam War. This interest, as both editors claim, has been caused partly by the availability of new archival materials and partly by critical questions about the continuing influence of the war on later U.S. foreign politics and U.S. military operations during the 1990s and the twenty-first century. Hailing from a variety of academic fields such as film studies, anthropology, literary criticism, cultural studies, and critical refugee studies, the authors revisit earlier ideas and refresh established discourses by looking through their twenty-first-century lenses, thus illustrating how the legacy of the war continues to affect a variety of communities. The collection also makes a fine contribution by looking not only at the United States and its different communities still affected by the afterlife of the war but also at communities in Australia, Cambodia, Hong Kong, and Vietnam. This intertwined transnational observation is a truly strong feature of the collection.

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Vietnam War

By: History.com Editors

Updated: May 16, 2024 | Original: October 29, 2009

The Vietnam War was a long, costly and divisive conflict that pitted the communist government of North Vietnam against South Vietnam and its principal ally, the United States. The conflict was intensified by the ongoing Cold War between the United States and the Soviet Union. More than 3 million people (including over 58,000 Americans) were killed in the Vietnam War, and more than half of the dead were Vietnamese civilians. 

Opposition to the war in the United States bitterly divided Americans, even after President Richard Nixon signed the Paris Peace Accords and ordered the withdrawal of U.S. forces in 1973. Communist forces ended the war by seizing control of South Vietnam in 1975, and the country was unified as the Socialist Republic of Vietnam the following year.

Roots of the Vietnam War

Vietnam, a nation in Southeast Asia on the eastern edge of the Indochinese peninsula, had been under French colonial rule since the 19th century.

During World War II , Japanese forces invaded Vietnam. To fight off both Japanese occupiers and the French colonial administration, political leader Ho Chi Minh —inspired by Chinese and Soviet communism —formed the Viet Minh, or the League for the Independence of Vietnam.

Following its 1945 defeat in World War II , Japan withdrew its forces from Vietnam, leaving the French-educated Emperor Bao Dai in control. Seeing an opportunity to seize control, Ho’s Viet Minh forces immediately rose up, taking over the northern city of Hanoi and declaring a Democratic Republic of Vietnam (DRV) with Ho as president.

Seeking to regain control of the region, France backed Emperor Bao and set up the state of Vietnam in July 1949, with the city of Saigon as its capital.

Both sides wanted the same thing: a unified Vietnam. But while Ho and his supporters wanted a nation modeled after other communist countries, Bao and many others wanted a Vietnam with close economic and cultural ties to the West.

Did you know? According to a survey by the Veterans Administration, some 500,000 of the 3 million troops who served in Vietnam suffered from post-traumatic stress disorder, and rates of divorce, suicide, alcoholism and drug addiction were markedly higher among veterans.

When Did the Vietnam War Start?

The Vietnam War and active U.S. involvement in the war began in 1954, though ongoing conflict in the region had stretched back several decades.

After Ho’s communist forces took power in the north, armed conflict between northern and southern armies continued until the northern Viet Minh’s decisive victory in the Battle of Dien Bien Phu in May 1954. The French loss at the battle ended almost a century of French colonial rule in Indochina.

The subsequent treaty signed in July 1954 at a Geneva conference split Vietnam along the latitude known as the 17th Parallel (17 degrees north latitude), with Ho in control in the North and Bao in the South. The treaty also called for nationwide elections for reunification to be held in 1956.

In 1955, however, the strongly anti-communist politician Ngo Dinh Diem pushed Emperor Bao aside to become president of the Government of the Republic of Vietnam (GVN), often referred to during that era as South Vietnam.

The Viet Cong

With the Cold War intensifying worldwide, the United States hardened its policies against any allies of the Soviet Union , and by 1955 President Dwight D. Eisenhower had pledged his firm support to Diem and South Vietnam.

With training and equipment from American military and the CIA , Diem’s security forces cracked down on Viet Minh sympathizers in the south, whom he derisively called Viet Cong (or Vietnamese Communist), arresting some 100,000 people, many of whom were brutally tortured and executed.

By 1957, the Viet Cong and other opponents of Diem’s repressive regime began fighting back with attacks on government officials and other targets, and by 1959 they had begun engaging the South Vietnamese army in firefights.

In December 1960, Diem’s many opponents within South Vietnam—both communist and non-communist—formed the National Liberation Front (NLF) to organize resistance to the regime. Though the NLF claimed to be autonomous and that most of its members were not communists, many in Washington assumed it was a puppet of Hanoi.

Vietnam War Timeline

Vietnam Background: Uneasy French Rule • 1887: France imposes a colonial system over Vietnam, calling it French Indochina. The system includes Tonkin, Annam, Cochin China and Cambodia. Laos is added in 1893. • 1923‑25: Vietnamese nationalist Ho Chi Minh is trained in the Soviet Union as an agent of the Communist International (Comitern). • February 1930: Ho Chi […]

Henry Kissinger’s Controversial Role in the Vietnam War

As Nixon's Secretary of State, Kissinger both escalated the war—and tried to end it.

6 Events That Laid the Groundwork for the Vietnam War

The conflict in Vietnam took root during an independence movement against French colonial rule and evolved into a Cold War confrontation.

Domino Theory

A team sent by President John F. Kennedy in 1961 to report on conditions in South Vietnam advised a build-up of American military, economic and technical aid in order to help Diem confront the Viet Cong threat.

Working under the “ domino theory ,” which held that if one Southeast Asian country fell to communism, many other countries would follow, Kennedy increased U.S. aid, though he stopped short of committing to a large-scale military intervention.

By 1962, the U.S. military presence in South Vietnam had reached some 9,000 troops, compared with fewer than 800 during the 1950s.

Gulf of Tonkin

A coup by some of his own generals succeeded in toppling and killing Diem and his brother, Ngo Dinh Nhu, in November 1963, three weeks before Kennedy was assassinated in Dallas, Texas.

The ensuing political instability in South Vietnam persuaded Kennedy’s successor, Lyndon B. Johnson , and Secretary of Defense Robert McNamara to further increase U.S. military and economic support.

In August of 1964, after DRV torpedo boats attacked two U.S. destroyers in the Gulf of Tonkin, Johnson ordered the retaliatory bombing of military targets in North Vietnam. Congress soon passed the Gulf of Tonkin Resolution , which gave Johnson broad war-making powers, and U.S. planes began regular bombing raids, codenamed Operation Rolling Thunder , the following year.

The bombing was not limited to Vietnam; from 1964-1973, the United States covertly dropped two million tons of bombs on neighboring, neutral Laos during the CIA-led “Secret War” in Laos . The bombing campaign was meant to disrupt the flow of supplies across the Ho Chi Minh trail into Vietnam and to prevent the rise of the Pathet Lao, or Lao communist forces. The U.S. bombings made Laos the most heavily bombed country per capita in the world.

In March 1965, Johnson made the decision—with solid support from the American public—to send U.S. combat forces into battle in Vietnam. By June, 82,000 combat troops were stationed in Vietnam, and military leaders were calling for 175,000 more by the end of 1965 to shore up the struggling South Vietnamese army.

Despite the concerns of some of his advisers about this escalation, and about the entire war effort amid a growing anti-war movement , Johnson authorized the immediate dispatch of 100,000 troops at the end of July 1965 and another 100,000 in 1966. In addition to the United States, South Korea , Thailand, Australia and New Zealand also committed troops to fight in South Vietnam (albeit on a much smaller scale).

William Westmoreland

In contrast to the air attacks on North Vietnam, the U.S.-South Vietnamese war effort in the south was fought primarily on the ground, largely under the command of General William Westmoreland , in coordination with the government of General Nguyen Van Thieu in Saigon.

Westmoreland pursued a policy of attrition, aiming to kill as many enemy troops as possible rather than trying to secure territory. By 1966, large areas of South Vietnam had been designated as “free-fire zones,” from which all innocent civilians were supposed to have evacuated and only enemy remained. Heavy bombing by B-52 aircraft or shelling made these zones uninhabitable, as refugees poured into camps in designated safe areas near Saigon and other cities.

Even as the enemy body count (at times exaggerated by U.S. and South Vietnamese authorities) mounted steadily, DRV and Viet Cong troops refused to stop fighting, encouraged by the fact that they could easily reoccupy lost territory with manpower and supplies delivered via the Ho Chi Minh Trail through Cambodia and Laos. Additionally, supported by aid from China and the Soviet Union, North Vietnam strengthened its air defenses.

Vietnam War Protests

By November 1967, the number of American troops in Vietnam was approaching 500,000, and U.S. casualties had reached 15,058 killed and 109,527 wounded. As the war stretched on, some soldiers came to mistrust the government’s reasons for keeping them there, as well as Washington’s repeated claims that the war was being won.

The later years of the war saw increased physical and psychological deterioration among American soldiers—both volunteers and draftees—including drug use , post-traumatic stress disorder ( PTSD ), mutinies and attacks by soldiers against officers and noncommissioned officers.

Between July 1966 and December 1973, more than 503,000 U.S. military personnel deserted, and a robust anti-war movement among American forces spawned violent protests, killings and mass incarcerations of personnel stationed in Vietnam as well as within the United States.

Bombarded by horrific images of the war on their televisions, Americans on the home front turned against the war as well: In October 1967, some 35,000 demonstrators staged a massive Vietnam War protest outside the Pentagon . Opponents of the war argued that civilians, not enemy combatants, were the primary victims and that the United States was supporting a corrupt dictatorship in Saigon.

Tet Offensive

By the end of 1967, Hanoi’s communist leadership was growing impatient as well, and sought to strike a decisive blow aimed at forcing the better-supplied United States to give up hopes of success.

On January 31, 1968, some 70,000 DRV forces under General Vo Nguyen Giap launched the Tet Offensive (named for the lunar new year), a coordinated series of fierce attacks on more than 100 cities and towns in South Vietnam.

Taken by surprise, U.S. and South Vietnamese forces nonetheless managed to strike back quickly, and the communists were unable to hold any of the targets for more than a day or two.

Reports of the Tet Offensive stunned the U.S. public, however, especially after news broke that Westmoreland had requested an additional 200,000 troops, despite repeated assurances that victory in the Vietnam War was imminent. With his approval ratings dropping in an election year, Johnson called a halt to bombing in much of North Vietnam (though bombings continued in the south) and promised to dedicate the rest of his term to seeking peace rather than reelection.

Johnson’s new tack, laid out in a March 1968 speech, met with a positive response from Hanoi, and peace talks between the U.S. and North Vietnam opened in Paris that May. Despite the later inclusion of the South Vietnamese and the NLF, the dialogue soon reached an impasse, and after a bitter 1968 election season marred by violence, Republican Richard M. Nixon won the presidency.

Vietnamization

Nixon sought to deflate the anti-war movement by appealing to a “silent majority” of Americans who he believed supported the war effort. In an attempt to limit the volume of American casualties, he announced a program called Vietnamization : withdrawing U.S. troops, increasing aerial and artillery bombardment and giving the South Vietnamese the training and weapons needed to effectively control the ground war.

In addition to this Vietnamization policy, Nixon continued public peace talks in Paris, adding higher-level secret talks conducted by Secretary of State Henry Kissinger beginning in the spring of 1968.

The North Vietnamese continued to insist on complete and unconditional U.S. withdrawal—plus the ouster of U.S.-backed General Nguyen Van Thieu—as conditions of peace, however, and as a result the peace talks stalled.

My Lai Massacre

The next few years would bring even more carnage, including the horrifying revelation that U.S. soldiers had mercilessly slaughtered more than 400 unarmed civilians in the village of My Lai in March 1968.

After the My Lai Massacre , anti-war protests continued to build as the conflict wore on. In 1968 and 1969, there were hundreds of protest marches and gatherings throughout the country.

On November 15, 1969, the largest anti-war demonstration in American history took place in Washington, D.C. , as over 250,000 Americans gathered peacefully, calling for withdrawal of American troops from Vietnam.

The anti-war movement, which was particularly strong on college campuses, divided Americans bitterly. For some young people, the war symbolized a form of unchecked authority they had come to resent. For other Americans, opposing the government was considered unpatriotic and treasonous.

As the first U.S. troops were withdrawn, those who remained became increasingly angry and frustrated, exacerbating problems with morale and leadership. Tens of thousands of soldiers received dishonorable discharges for desertion, and about 500,000 American men from 1965-73 became “draft dodgers,” with many fleeing to Canada to evade conscription . Nixon ended draft calls in 1972, and instituted an all-volunteer army the following year.

Kent State Shooting

In 1970, a joint U.S-South Vietnamese operation invaded Cambodia, hoping to wipe out DRV supply bases there. The South Vietnamese then led their own invasion of Laos, which was pushed back by North Vietnam.

The invasion of these countries, in violation of international law, sparked a new wave of protests on college campuses across America. During one, on May 4, 1970, at Kent State University in Ohio , National Guardsmen shot and killed four students. At another protest 10 days later, two students at Jackson State University in Mississippi were killed by police.

By the end of June 1972, however, after a failed offensive into South Vietnam, Hanoi was finally willing to compromise. Kissinger and North Vietnamese representatives drafted a peace agreement by early fall, but leaders in Saigon rejected it, and in December Nixon authorized a number of bombing raids against targets in Hanoi and Haiphong. Known as the Christmas Bombings, the raids drew international condemnation.

The Pentagon Papers

A top-secret Department of Defense study of U.S. political and military involvement in Vietnam from 1945 to 1967 was published in the New York Times in 1971—shedding light on how the Nixon administration ramped up conflict in Vietnam. The report, leaked to the Times by military analyst Daniel Ellsberg, further eroded support for keeping U.S. forces in Vietnam. 

When Did the Vietnam War End?

In January 1973, the United States and North Vietnam concluded a final peace agreement, ending open hostilities between the two nations. War between North and South Vietnam continued, however, until April 30, 1975, when DRV forces captured Saigon, renaming it Ho Chi Minh City (Ho himself died in 1969).

More than two decades of violent conflict had inflicted a devastating toll on Vietnam’s population: After years of warfare, an estimated 2 million Vietnamese were killed, while 3 million were wounded and another 12 million became refugees. Warfare had demolished the country’s infrastructure and economy, and reconstruction proceeded slowly.

In 1976, Vietnam was unified as the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, though sporadic violence continued over the next 15 years, including conflicts with neighboring China and Cambodia. Under a broad free market policy put in place in 1986, the economy began to improve, boosted by oil export revenues and an influx of foreign capital. Trade and diplomatic relations between Vietnam and the U.S. resumed in the 1990s.

In the United States, the effects of the Vietnam War would linger long after the last troops returned home in 1973. The nation spent more than $120 billion on the conflict in Vietnam from 1965-73; this massive spending led to widespread inflation, exacerbated by a worldwide oil crisis in 1973 and skyrocketing fuel prices.

Psychologically, the effects ran even deeper. The war had pierced the myth of American invincibility and had bitterly divided the nation. Many returning veterans faced negative reactions from both opponents of the war (who viewed them as having killed innocent civilians) and its supporters (who saw them as having lost the war), along with physical damage including the effects of exposure to the toxic herbicide Agent Orange , millions of gallons of which had been dumped by U.S. planes on the dense forests of Vietnam.

In 1982, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial was unveiled in Washington, D.C. On it were inscribed the names of 57,939 American men and women killed or missing in the war; later additions brought that total to 58,200.

Kent State Shootings: A Timeline of the Tragedy

A weekend of escalating tensions exploded into 13 seconds of gunfire—and four dead in Ohio.

How the Tet Offensive Shocked Americans into Questioning if the Vietnam War Could be Won

Turns out, the US had made one miscalculation after another.

This 21‑Year‑Old College Student Designed the Vietnam Veterans Memorial

Maya Lin won a design competition—and sparked a national controversy.

HISTORY Vault: Vietnam in HD

See the Vietnam War unfold through the gripping firsthand accounts of 13 brave men and women forever changed by their experiences.

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Teaching the Vietnam War With Primary Sources From The New York Times

By Michael Gonchar

• March 29, 2017

Note: This lesson is intended for high school students and older. Teachers, please preview the photographs in the slide shows to make sure they are appropriate for your students.

This lesson aims to take advantage of The New York Times as a living textbook — a source that chronicled the Vietnam War as it took place and that continues to look back with the benefit of hindsight.

From the Gulf of Tonkin Resolution, to the Mai Lai massacre, the bombing of North Vietnam and the fall of Saigon, The Times was reporting the news as it came to light. In the years since, The Times has published myriad articles, Opinion pieces and special collections, including the current “ Vietnam ’67 ” column looking back on “a year that changed the war and changed America.”

Below, we offer students and teachers a curated selection of three types of primary sources — photographs, original articles, and first-person accounts — to investigate and analyze as a way to both build students’ understanding of this complex and devastating historical event and to pique students’ interest in studying the Vietnam War further. Scroll down to find accompanying teaching activities that build students’ analytical skills while encouraging inquiry.

Photographs

How young soldiers saw life in wartime vietnam.

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These three Times slide shows present students with different perspectives on the Vietnam War. The first two collections feature iconic and prizewinning photographs taken by Associated Press photographers. Some are disturbing, so teachers should take care to decide whether they are appropriate for students. The third slide show includes images taken by American soldiers on tour in the “strange land where they had been sent.”

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Pentagon Papers

The Pentagon Papers, officially titled "Report of the Office of the Secretary of Defense Vietnam Task Force", was commissioned by Secretary of Defense Robert McNamara in 1967. In June of 1971, small portions of the report were leaked to the press and widely distributed. However, the publications of the report that resulted from these leaks were incomplete and suffered from many quality issues.

On the 40th anniversary of the leak to the press, the National Archives, along with the Kennedy, Johnson, and Nixon Presidential Libraries, has released the complete report. There are 48 boxes and approximately 7,000 declassified pages. Approximately 34% of the report is available for the first time.

What is unique about this, compared to other versions, is that:

• The complete Report is now available with no redactions compared to previous releases
• The Report is presented as Leslie Gelb presented it to then Secretary of Defense Clark Clifford on January 15, 1969
• All the supplemental back-documentation is included. In the Gravel Edition, 80% of the documents in Part V.B. were not included
• This release includes the complete account of peace negotiations, significant portions of which were not previously available either in the House Armed Services Committee redacted copy of the Report or in the Gravel Edition

All files in the "Title" column are in PDF format. Due to the large file sizes, we recommend that you save them rather than try to open them directly.

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How The Pentagon Papers Changed Public Perception Of The War In Vietnam

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The term Đổi Mới , meaning literally “new change” and commonly translated as “renovation,” denotes the economic reforms adopted by the Vietnamese government in the late 1980s. Recently, it has come to signify change in all sectors of Vietnamese society. Much like the terms Glastnost and Perestroika employed in the Soviet Union toward the end of the Cold War, Đổi Mới has become synonymous with détente, liberalization, open-door policy and freedom of expression. However, using the term Đổi Mới to define a period of radical change in Vietnamese culture bears the assumption that economic opening automatically leads to other kinds of reform…

Online Research Resources

General information.

A general country guide on Vietnam.

Compiled by University of Washington Libraries, this research guide provides links to reference documents related to Vietnam.

Provides facts about the geography, people, government, economy, and communications of Vietnam.

Provides information on the flag, anthem, and genealogy of rulers of Vietnam.

Government Institutions

Provides information on metrology, as well as standardization, assessments, and quality management.

The official website of the Embassy of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam in the United States. It provides facts and information about the country, traveling, history, foreign policy, and news.

Provides information on news, legal documents, and statistics from the MInistry of Health.

Provides information and links regarding foreign trade offices and local trade departments.

The Ministry of Information and Communications of the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam is the state administration in charge of policy-making and regulatory matters in posts, telecommunications, information technology, electronics, internet, radio transmission and emission techniques, radio-frequency management and national information infrastructure, management of public services as well as of control over, on behalf of Government and as stipulated by laws and regulations, the state capital in posts, telecommunications and information technology enterprises.

The Ministry of Planning and Investment is a government agency charged with state management over the domain of planning and investment. This consists of providing comprehensive advice on the country-level socio-economic development strategies, programs and plans, economic management mechanisms, policies for the national economy and specific sectors, domestic and foreign investments, industrial and export-processing zones, management of official development assistance sources, national control of procurement, enterprises, and business registration. The Ministry is also entrusted with exercising state management over public services provided in sectors belonging to the Ministry's mandate under valid legislation.

Provides information on the President and Deputies of the National Assembly, as well as the constitution. There is also a brief presentation of the history of Vietnam and the National Assembly, as well as a photo gallery.

Provides information on news, events, promotions, and statistics about tourism in Vietnam.

Author: Dao Duy Anh Publisher: Van Hoa Thong Tin, 2005, reprinted, first edition published in 1932.

Provides Vietnamese language courses and studying materials.

Provides information on the Vietnamese writing system.

History, Culture and Religion

Provides digital images taken in Vietnam in 1969 by E. Kenneth Hoffman who was a First Lieutenant in charge of a photo detachment. Pictures are classified into different categories such as children, Montagnard tribesmen, military, Vietnamese people, and shrines.

Political and Social Issues

Publishes a newsletter related to the activities of the Communist Party of Vietnam, as well as archives about the leaders of the Communist Party.

Provides news, reports, and publications related to human rights in Vietnam.

Provides access to selected Vietnamese law documents in English.

Publishes the BBC’s reporting in Vietnamese.

Provides access to the Economist’s reporting on Vietnam, covering the economy, statistical information, and facts about the government.

Publishes local news, distributing information closely related to the Communist Party of Vietnam.

Publishes news in English from Vietnam as well as other countries worldwide, aggregated from more than 5,000 news sources.

This is the archived online edition of the Thanh Nien Newspaper in English and Vietnamese. It published news related to politics, business, society, youth, sports, entertainment, travel, health, and news in Vietnam and in the world. The website has not been updated since 2016.

This archived website provides both local and international news in English. It has not been updated since 2011.

Publishes news in Vietnamese, distributed from Australia.

Publishes news about politics, business, society, and education in Vietnamese and English.

Publishes news about politics, diplomacy, society, education, business, finance, culture, sports, science, technology, health, and the environment. The publication is from Ho Chi Minh City, available in Vietnamese, English, French, and Spanish.

Publishes Radio France Internationale’s reporting in Vietnamese.

Publishes the reporting of Radio Free Asia in Vietnamese.

Provides access to broadcasts of the Voice of Vietnam, as well as daily news about politics, economics, society, culture, and sports.

Provides access to broadcasts of the Voice of America in Vietnamese.

Research Institutions

Provides information on the Asia Foundation’s work in specifically work related to economic reform, land management, law and justice, and governance.

Provides reports and information on development projects of the Asian Development Bank in Vietnam.

Provides articles on recent and archived stories about Vietnam.

Provides working papers and reports on the IMF in Vietnam.

Provides information on the UNDP’s work in Vietnam. It contains publications of UNDP projects related to democratic governance, poverty reduction, crisis prevention, energy, and the environment.

Provides information and publications regarding UN programs in Vietnam.

Provides access to the University of Washington’s Vietnam Studies Group listserv.

Provides information on the World Bank’s projects in Vietnam, including data, statistics, publications, reports, and news.

Travel Information

Provides information on tourist attractions and travel guides in Vietnam.

Provides an overview of tourist attractions and travel information in Vietnam.

Digital Collections

This University of Texas at Austin collection contains various maps of Vietnam, including country maps, city maps, thematic maps, regional maps, and historical maps.

This collection from the National Library of Vietnam and the Vietnamese Nom Preservation Foundation includes images and metadata for over 1,000 ancient texts in Hán and Nôm, the former ideographic writing systems of Vietnam. The texts cover the classics, as well as history, philosophy, and literature.

This Archive collects and preserves the documentary record of the Vietnam War, including oral histories.

This website contains records and files of war in Indochina in the 1970s that are now stored in the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library and Museum.

A collection of 175 photographs covering military, economy and political activities during the war period.

Open Access Journals

HO CHI MINH CITY OPEN UNIVERSITY JOURNAL OF SCIENCE - ECONOMICS AND BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION publishes research on Economics, Business, Finance-Banking-Insurance, Accounting-Auditing, Administration-Management.

HO CHI MINH CITY OPEN UNIVERSITY JOURNAL OF SCIENCE - ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY publishes research on Mechanics, Information Technology, Chemistry – Food Technology, Agriculture – Forestry, Biology, Construction – Architecture.

HO CHI MINH CITY OPEN UNIVERSITY JOURNAL OF SCIENCE - SOCIAL SCIENCES publishes research in the fields of Education, Law, Linguistics, Social Work, Philosophy – Sociology – Political science, Culturology

The JIEM is published by the Foreign Trade University. The journal covers research on economics and management ranging from theoretical studies to quantitative or analytical studies addressing concerns viewed from international, regional, and local dimensions.

An archived journal focused on literature, politics, history, and contemporary social issues of Vietnam. Historically, Talawas was a vibrant and important forum of the Vietnamese intellectuals outside and inside of Vietnam.

The Journal publishes research (in Vietnamese and English) in the fields of science and technology, including: Social Sciences and Humanities; Natural Sciences and Technology; Economics and Management.

The journal publishes articles in the fields of Science and Technology. (In Vietnamese)

This journal publishes articles in the following areas: Economics, Business, Finance-Banking-Insurance, Accounting-Auditing, Administration-Management. (In Vietnamese)

This journal publishes articles on topics in art and technology. (In Vietnamese)

The Vietnam Journal of Computer Science highlights the use of computer science methods and technologies for solving tasks in management, industry, engineering, administration, and education, includes evaluations of existing intelligent systems and tools, emphasizing comparative studies and user experiences, covers all sub disciplines of computer science, with a particular emphasis on information systems, artificial intelligence, soft computing, and agents.

VJOL (Vietnam Journals Online) is a database of Vietnamese journals spanning across all scientific domains

Vietnam War

Provides a collection of research articles, maps during the Vietnam War and bibliography for further research and study about the Vietnam War from the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

Provides reference documents related to research and studies guides about the Vietnam War.