How The Vietnam War Affected American Foreign Policy

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The Vietnam War affected American foreign policy significantly, both during the conflict and in the years that followed. Many Americans lost faith in their government and its foreign policies as a result of the war's protracted, expensive, and ultimately disastrous military involvement. The conflict also caused a change in American foreign policy, emphasizing diplomacy and using a more cautious and practical approach. Additionally, as decision-makers strove to learn from the mistakes of Vietnam and advance peace and security globally, the war brought a fresh emphasis on human rights and democracy promotion in American foreign policy. American politics, society, and culture were all profoundly affected by the Vietnam War, which also led to a …show more content…

Also in 1969, when student body presidents of 253 universities wrote to the White House to say that they personally planned to refuse induction, joining the half million others who would do so during the course of the war. The conflict had a substantial effect on the economy as well, with unemployment and soaring prices adding to a sense of fear. The war also had a long-lasting effect on American culture, with many works of literature, music, and film capturing the agony and despair of the time. With continuous discussions over the place of the United States in the world and the use of military action to further foreign policy goals, the impact of the Vietnam War is still felt today. The Vietnam War's effect on the soldiers who participated in the fight was another significant aspect of the battle. Because of how cruel and horrific the war was, many troops who served had physical and mental health issues. In addition, a disproportionately large number of Americans from the working class and the poor were drafted into the military against their wishes. Another contentious topic included how Vietnam soldiers were treated once they got home, with many of them encountering prejudice and animosity from other