History Consequences

An estimated number of Vietnamese civilians were killed during the war. U.S. bombing campaigns (like Operation Rolling Thunder) and the use of napalm/cluster bombs caused widespread civilian casualties.

The number of US soldiers killed

The number of US soldiers wounded

The tons of U.S. bombs dropped on Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia

The tons of bombs dropped during the entirety of World War II.

Tons of bombs the U.S. dropped on North Vietnam during Operation Rolling Thunder (1965-1968)

Gallons of defoliants which were sprayed over Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia by the U.S. from 1961 to 1971.

Television broadcasts showed widespread destruction and loss of control.

Gallup poll result findings measuring the percentage of U.S. citizens who trusted the government to 'do the right thing' in 1968 vs the early 1960s.

Politicians often promised progress in Vietnam, while media coverage and soldiers' letters revealed setbacks.

Vietnam was the first "television war," showing graphic images of combat, civilian deaths, and protests.

Constant visibility made Americans more critical of politicians' decisions, unlike previous wars, where the news was filtered.

Opposition to the war became widespread and highly visible.

National Guard fired on protesting students, killing 4 and wounding 9, sparking nationwide outrage.

Many civil rights activists linked the fight against communism abroad with inequality at home.

Poor and minority Americans were disproportionately drafted, highlighting systemic racism.

Counterculture movement which opposed conflict and sought for equality, rights, and liberation.