Vietnam's Second Front

Main Themes and Topics

Vietnam's Second Front by Andrew L. Johns provides an in-depth analysis of the Vietnam War from a domestic political perspective. The book emphasizes the significant influence of the Republican Party on the Vietnam War's progression. It explores the roles played by various Republican leaders, grassroots organizations, and the Nixon administration in shaping the war's direction. Additionally, Johns examines the complex interplay between Congress and the presidential office, highlighting their struggles for control over U.S. foreign policy. The book offers a critical reassessment of the commonly perceived roles and responsibilities of the President and Congress during the conflict.

Johns's analysis begins in 1961, covering the Kennedy, Johnson, and Nixon administrations, and extends through the Paris Peace Accords of 1973. He argues that these administrations' failures to win on both military and political fronts were due to their deep preoccupation with domestic politics. The narrative delves into the political strategies and maneuvers required to navigate between escalation and negotiation, shedding light on the broader implications of these decisions on American political and military outcomes.

Writing Style and Tone

Andrew L. Johns employs a clear and incisive writing style that complements his thorough research into the Vietnam War. The book is characterized by its comprehensive use of archival sources, providing a well-documented and authoritative account of the era. Johns's tone is analytical and insightful, weaving historical facts with an interpretive analysis that challenges traditional narratives. His prose effectively communicates complex political interplay, making the book accessible to both scholars and general readers interested in U.S. political history and the Vietnam War.

Brief Summary

Vietnam's Second Front is a scholarly examination of the impact of domestic politics on the Vietnam War, with a particular focus on the Republican Party's role in the conflict. The book spans from 1961 to 1973, covering the Kennedy, Johnson, and Nixon administrations. Johns argues that the war's outcome was significantly shaped by internal political dynamics, as leaders juggled domestic pressures and foreign policy challenges. Through a detailed exploration of congressional and presidential actions, Johns provides a reassessment of accountability and the intricate relationship between domestic politics and military decision-making in one of America's most turbulent periods.