What were the effects of the Vietnam War?

Answer

People in the U.S. and in much of the Western world saw the American government's actions as a Dean Rusk/Henry Kissinger mandate. The US no longer was the moral and trusted leader. Some turned to Bible study and faith based institutions to evade military service, Some ignored the Selective Service Act and some formed reactionery groups to oppose compulsory military service. Early rebels became 'gung ho' Marines. President Johnson withdrew from national leadership, Robert Kennedy entered the race. He was killed. Richard Nixon won an election with a promise to withdraw the troops in part due to media pressure. Old story. Like now in Iraq.

The effects of the Vietnam War were numerous on varied fronts, but several can and should be enumerated such as:

• Lyndon Johnson was removed from office and the Nixon era began.
• William Westmorland and Robert McNamara's war ended as a political failure not a military failure. In many ways the efficiency's he instituted were and remain effective in procurement of goods and services for the government.
• Failure to conclude the Vietnam War in the form of a decisive victory was a serious blow to military prestige. The New Military who had seen actual combat had vowed never again.
• Times change and many of those great leaders are no longer in service. The anti-Vietnam capitulation has been in some sense forgotten. The vibrant anti-war era of the 60's gave the US an all voluntary Armed Forces that is second to none.
• The draft was over although it remains in reserve. The draftee served with equal honor and distinction and aquitted themselves with high praise.
• The US citizens had a failure in confidence in the military. In spite of that problem the US troops are better supported, trained and equipped then ever before.
• Nuclear War never happened.
• US troop drug abuse was exagerated, although government issued whites or amphetamines were routinely issue
• Many people died and a WhoDunit about which US President first involved the US will conflict and confuse historians for generations.
• Blame for entry into this conlict remains open and continues to tarnish Presidential images.
• Many troops of many nations were wounded or died.
• Vietnam is a reunited country
• The expansion of Communism was at least checked.
• Around the world the presence of boat people has enhanced both the world's economy, but also the vibrant nature of every nation they entered.

First answer by anonymous. Last edit by USCitizen. Contributor trust: 1371 [recommend contributor]. Question popularity: 128 [recommend question]