The Impact of the Vietnam War on the People of America
The Vietnam War was one of the most tragic wars in American history. The affects it had on the American people were tremendous. Even today many Americans have the frightening, unforgettable memories of the war. The war was accounted to be over in 1973, but Americans still suffer the aftershocks of a national trauma that has left the nation bitterly divided and estranged from its ideals. The painful memories will be eased, but they will never be fully healed. Many Americans look at the Vietnam War as
the most hated conflict in United States history. It was also the first war America has not won. Many Americans started to lose faith in their country. Many refugees came to America in hopes to start a much
better life here, but were disliked by many because they made it more difficult for the many unemployed citizens of America.
Many families in America felt much sorrow as they learn of resent events in Vietnam, like the
battle of Laos, and the loss of there loved ones. Many veterans returned from Vietnam and received a cold welcome from millions of Americans that felt a deep hatred for the war and the way the fighting ended.
The only warm greetings came from family and friends of the veterans. One veteran spoke for many when
he said, "I went to Vietnam thinking I was a good American who was doing my duty for my country. I
come back and ended up feeling like a criminal." It alienated many returning veterans from their fellow
citizens and made them wonder if they would ever again fit into the mainstream of their nation's life. They
also wondered if they would ever win a place for themselves in the United States. One reason for these
feelings toward the veteran is that the veterans did not return at the end of the war, but throughout the
course of the war after serving a tour of duty. They did not return with their units, but instead ...