Advice and Support, the Early Years of the United States Army in Vietnam, 1941-1960

Main Themes and Topics

Advice and Support, the Early Years of the United States Army in Vietnam, 1941-1960 by Ronald H. Spector dives deep into the complex and often misunderstood period of initial U.S. military involvement in Vietnam. The book meticulously traces the advisory role played by the U.S. Army during these formative years. Spector's research brings to light several pivotal issues, such as the U.S.'s readiness to use atomic weapons to assist French colonial forces in 1954, and the internal opposition from military leaders like Army Chief of Staff Gen. Matthew Ridgway against State Department's persistent demands for extensive military engagement.

Another significant theme is the glaring lack of understanding among American advisors concerning Vietnamese culture, language, and social structures. This ignorance, according to Spector, coupled with an overconfident 'Can Do attitude,' significantly hampered the American advisors' ability to assess the effectiveness of the South Vietnamese army and the legitimacy of its government. The book illustrates how these initial missteps foreshadowed the greater quagmire that the Vietnam War later became.

Writing Style and Tone

Spector adopts a scholarly yet accessible tone in Advice and Support. His writing is characterized by a clear, factual style that seeks to inform rather than entertain. The book is well-structured and progresses in a logical manner, making use of declassified documents and official sources to support its assertions. Spector's background as a historian is evident in his meticulous attention to detail and his ability to weave numerous historical threads into a coherent narrative.

Brief Summary

In this definitive account of the U.S. Army's early involvement in Vietnam, Ronald H. Spector provides an in-depth analysis of the period from 1941 to 1960. The book begins by examining the initial American military advisory efforts during and after World War II, leading up to the advisory and support roles undertaken in the 1950s. Spector highlights critical decisions and policies that influenced the trajectory of the U.S. military's presence in Vietnam, emphasizing the challenges faced due to inadequate cultural understanding and strategic miscalculations.

Criticism

While Advice and Support is praised for its rigorous research and comprehensive examination of the period, some critics might argue that the book's dense presentation of historical data can be overwhelming for readers not already familiar with the broader context of the Vietnam War. The focus on military documents and official communications, though thorough, may not fully capture the personal accounts and narratives of those on the ground, which could provide additional depth to the historical analysis.