Vietnam, a History in Documents

Main Themes and Topics

Vietnam, a History in Documents by Gareth Porter offers a comprehensive examination of the Vietnam conflict, painstakingly detailing the perspectives of both sides involved. This substantial compilation of over 300 documents illuminates the evolution of policies and ideologies that characterized this tumultuous period. Key themes include the initial ambitions for Vietnamese independence, the shifting foreign policies of successive American administrations, and the eventual U.S. military intervention. The book also explores the dynamic strategies of North Vietnamese leadership as they pivoted from peaceful strategies to more militant approaches in the face of overwhelming opposition.

Writing Style and Tone

Gareth Porter's writing style in Vietnam, a History in Documents is objective and academic. Porter employs a tone that is both informative and analytical, which complements the document-based approach of the book. The inclusion of declassified U.S. documents and North Vietnamese records adds layers of authenticity and gravitas to the narrative, presenting the Vietnam War as not only a historical event but also as a complex tapestry woven from myriad decisions and indecisions. The book remains neutral, allowing readers to interpret the events based on the presented evidence.

Brief Summary

This monumental work delves into the Vietnam War from its origins to the fall of Saigon, drawing on a vast array of documentary evidence. It tracks the evolving U.S. foreign policy from Franklin Roosevelt's early support for Vietnamese independence to subsequent endorsements of French colonial power and the eventual American military intervention. By providing a dual perspective, Porter illustrates how American misconceptions and North Vietnamese resilience culminated in one of the most significant geopolitical shifts of the 20th century. Through these documents, readers are invited to explore what truly happened during the Vietnam War and why it remains a pivotal moment in modern history.