"The United States and the Vietnam War"

The United States became involved in the Vietnam War to prevent the spread of communism, supporting South Vietnam against the communist North Vietnam, led by Ho Chi Minh. Beginning as aid in the 1950s, U.S. involvement escalated to full military engagement in the 1960s, leading to a prolonged and costly conflict. The war sparked widespread protests domestically and was marked by challenging guerrilla warfare, heavy casualties, and political divisions. It ended in 1975 with the fall of Saigon, resulting in Vietnam reunified under communist control. The war significantly impacted U.S. foreign policy, military strategy, and societal attitudes.