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!