The War in Vietnam vs. The American Revolution A study of the parallels between these conflicts

In both… a world power fought against a weaker emerging nation fought on soil of weaker nation, allowing that nation “home field advantage”: know geography easier access to supplies moral support from local population

In both.. supply lines for stronger nation are an ocean wide, creating difficulty in providing for troops World powers’ advanced training and equipment not always effective in defeating smaller, weaker rebel forces

In both… world powers’ military leaders defeated numerous times, damaging their reputations for military leadership guerrilla tactics (“hit and run” sneak attacks) effective against superpower nation

Notice… guerrilla tactics used almost entirely in ground warfare in Vietnam Supported by air strikes, chemical warfare guerrilla tactics used far less in the American Revolution--less than half the time, mostly in the South most fighting conducted in traditional row on row style

In both… Weaker nations get aid from enemies of superpowers France, Spain help emerging U.S. in 1780’s U.S.S.R., China help emerging Vietnam in 1960’s, 70’s

In both… wartime economies strong, followed by huge debts, for both emerging nations and superpowers wars become unpopular with superpower populations Note American anti-war movement in 1960’s, 70’s: “Make love, not war!”

Notice… Americans declared independence from, not war on, the British in 1776 Americans never declared war on Vietnam in the 20th century Vietnam was engaged in a war which divided its country; America’s Revolution united the states

Ask an adult: Why did Americans lose the War in Vietnam? Maybe you will recognize their response… Maybe they will challenge the question!