Vietnam War Propaganda

Great Essays
The history of the United States is riddled with military engagements and warfare. From the inception of this country to the present day, the world knows the United States as a militaristic power. The 20th century was a particularly tumultuous time in which the United
States participated in many military conflicts including World War I, World War II, the Korean
War, the Vietnam War, the Persian Gulf War, and several other smaller or unofficial engagements. The use of propaganda acts as a common thread that ties all these military actions together. Countries rely on propaganda during wartime for a variety of reasons. Among other things, propaganda can motivate soldiers to fight, instill a strong hatred for the enemy, or drum up support on the
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The United States
Foley 3 fought both wars on foreign soil, and the interests of several different nations hung in the balance. This is not a particularly unique feature for wars involving the United States, but it remains noteworthy. In addition, both World War II and the Vietnam War featured modern warfare. World War II was on the early end of modern warfare as military strategy advanced to include the use of improved weapons and technology. The Vietnam War required the adaption of modern warfare tactics to the unique Vietnamese landscape, which proved extremely challenging. Lastly, both wars featured gradual escalation of American involvement. In neither
World War II nor the Vietnam War did the United States immediately commit itself to the war effort. Instead, the Americans started on smaller scales through the lend-lease policy and the use of military advisors in World War II and the Vietnam War respectively. Gradually the United
States increased its commitment to both wars until the country found itself fully involved, for better or for
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Historians often refer to
World War II as “The Good War” for the United States.2 Histories of this war depict widespread support for the American war effort against the Nazis and the Japanese. World War II was truly an all-out war that affected everyone in the country. The home front became a battle ground that was just as important to the success of the United States as the troops on the ground overseas, or so the people were told. And in the end, the Americans and the Allies were victorious.
On the other hand, many view the Vietnam War as a black mark on the record of the
United States abroad. Unlike World War II, the Vietnam War featured much less emphasis on the importance of the involvement of the public on the home front. This passive

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