RAND in Southeast Asia
by Mai Elliott
"A History of the Vietnam War Era"
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4.16 / 5
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RAND in Southeast Asia by Mai Elliott
Details
War:
Vietnam War
Perspective:
Researcher
True Story:
Yes
Biography:
No
Region:
Asia
Page Count:
695
Published Date:
2010
ISBN13:
9780833049155
Description
Main Themes and Topics
RAND in Southeast Asia by Mai Elliott delves into the significant role that the RAND Corporation played during the Vietnam War era, specifically focusing on its research efforts concerning insurgency and counterinsurgency in Southeast Asia. The book examines RAND's influence on U.S. policies in Vietnam, Laos, and Thailand as it navigated the complex political and military landscapes of the region. Elliott highlights the interplay between academics, policymakers, and military strategists, and how RAND's findings were utilized by officials to make critical decisions during the war. The narrative provides insight into the intellectual and strategic contributions of RAND, shedding light on how their research shaped American and Southeast Asian histories.
Writing Style and Tone
Mai Elliott employs a detailed and methodical writing style in RAND in Southeast Asia. The book is meticulously researched, drawing from an extensive array of interviews with former RAND staff members and numerous archival studies conducted by the institution. Elliott’s prose is clear and informative, making complex ideas accessible without sacrificing depth or nuance. The tone is balanced, as Elliott manages to present a historical narrative that is both engaging and academically rigorous, providing a thoughtful analysis of RAND’s impact on policy and strategy during a tumultuous period.
Brief Summary
RAND in Southeast Asia serves as a comprehensive examination of RAND Corporation’s research efforts during the Vietnam War and their implications for U.S. policy. Through a series of well-structured narratives, Elliott chronicles the dynamics of RAND’s involvement in insurgency studies and counterinsurgency strategies, capturing the era's intellectual fervor and challenges. By integrating interviews with personal accounts and technical analyses, the book paints a vivid picture of how RAND's work influenced both American officials and Southeast Asian strategies in a region marked by conflict and political upheaval.
