How do sources A, B and C show support for the war in Vietnam? - page 1
Keywords: gcse history coursework question two 2 source a b c support vietnam war
By exploiit on 19/06/2010
Level: GCSE Key Stage 4 (Years 10-11)
Page Number: 1 of 3 pages: 1 2 3
Sources A, B and C all present a thread of support for the war in Vietnam, each in a different way. The first is both visual and audible evidence of then American President L.B. Johnson’s point of view on the war, and his means to justify it. The second is an anecdote, showing one man’s admiration for the sacrifice young soldiers subjected themselves to in reverence to their country, and the level of support offered by their friends and family. The third source provides us with statistical evidence of what seems to be the American people’s support for this war. All three of these sources are given to us to highlight the confidence that American citizens had in their government, and in the war.
Source A is a video excerpt of President Johnson, in which he delivers a speech regarding America’s involvement in Vietnam. The clip itself begins with a series of shocking images depicting the horrors and atrocities that the small country of Vietnam is experiencing. This imagery is efficient in altering the American people to believe that their country is needed to help and defend Vietnam against the chaotic effects of Communism in Asia. Almost immediately, Johnson begins to speak of the major sacrifices that young American soldiers make in order to assist the Vietnamese. This helps to generate a sense of sympathy for those who put themselves in such probable positions of danger in the name of their country and its cause. The ‘cause’ of course is stated by Johnson himself as a fight “for freedom”. This seemingly exemplifies America’s complete commitment to the Truman Doctrine, and highlights their determination to achieve emancipation for Vietnam. Obviously, this fight for freedom would be a fight supported by the American people. Johnson is able to manipulate his audience’s sense of patriotism with the intention of gaining further support. Through explaining that America is a “country who honours [their] commitments”, Johnson leaves his listeners believing that they have failed to credit their obligations if they do not support the war. His play on America’s involvement in previous wars is also effective. In relating Vietnam to the “two world wars and … Korea”, Johnson is able to influence the opinion that this war is taking place for the same reasons – if the American public supported its country’s actions in WWI, WWII and Korea, then the American public has no reason to doubt
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