"Triumph Forsaken: The Vietnam War, 1954-1965" by Dr. Mark Moyar

Introduction

This tutorial provides a comprehensive overview of Dr. Mark Moyar's lecture on the Vietnam War, specifically focusing on the period from 1954 to 1965. It highlights key events such as the overthrow of South Vietnamese President Ngo Dinh Diem and examines how these events shaped U.S. policy. This guide is valuable for anyone looking to understand the complexities of the Vietnam War and its implications on modern military history.

Step 1: Understand the Context of Vietnam Post-1954

• Familiarize yourself with the geopolitical landscape following the Geneva Accords in 1954.
• Recognize the division of Vietnam into North and South, and the rise of communism in the North.
• Note the U.S. commitment to containing communism, which led to increased involvement in South Vietnam.

Step 2: Analyze the Role of Ngo Dinh Diem

• Investigate Diem's rise to power as the first president of South Vietnam.
• Examine his governance style, which included anti-communist policies and the suppression of political dissent.
• Consider the implications of his Catholicism in a predominantly Buddhist country and how this affected his popularity.

Step 3: Explore Key Events Leading to Diem's Overthrow

• Review the social and political unrest in South Vietnam during the early 1960s.
• Understand the impact of the Buddhist crisis and how it weakened Diem’s regime.
• Analyze the role of the U.S. government and military in supporting and eventually distancing from Diem.

Step 4: Evaluate U.S. Policy Changes

• Trace the evolution of U.S. involvement in Vietnam from military advisors to combat troops.
• Discuss the influence of the Cold War dynamics on decisions made by U.S. leaders.
• Highlight how the assassination of Diem in 1963 marked a turning point in U.S. strategy.

Step 5: Reflect on the Consequences

• Consider the immediate and long-term implications of Diem's removal for Vietnam and U.S. foreign policy.
• Discuss the rise of the Viet Cong and the escalation of conflict following Diem's overthrow.
• Reflect on how these events set the stage for the deeper U.S. military involvement in Vietnam.

Conclusion

Dr. Mark Moyar's lecture sheds light on pivotal moments and decisions during the Vietnam War that continue to influence U.S. foreign policy today. Understanding the complexities of this period is crucial for grasping the broader implications of military intervention and the challenges of nation-building. For further study, consider exploring primary sources from the era or additional scholarly works on the Vietnam War.