While most Americans might still think of Vietnam as little more than the site of a war that spread from the 1960s to the 1970s, such broad typecasting glosses over a complicated and frequently misrepresented country. This volume brings the nation's dynamic history, society and religious institutions to the page. Beginning with a lengthy introduction to Vietnam's past, this book traces the historical context that serves as a foundation for the present-day society and culture of this Southeast Asian nation. Intended for nonspecialists and other Asian enthusiasts, this work gives readers a thorough understanding of this diverse, richly storied land. From Vietnam's indigenous dynasties to outside influences including Buddhism, Confucianism, Western imperialism, and the Chinese bureaucracy system, the long path to a Vietnamese identity is traced-one that showcases a people's resilience, creativity, and intense love of freedom. This volume includes translations of numerous primary documents. From the narrative sections on Vietnamese history and society to the AZ format of significant people and events, Vietnam: A Global Studies Handbook brings Vietnam to life.
Discover the battles that took place in the jungles, cities and rice paddies and find out the real story behind the worldwide anti-war protests, in this guide that shows you as well as tells you everything you need to know about the Vietnam War. See, learn and discover everything about the conflict and explore the effects of the "first war fought on television".
The story of American intervention in Vietnam begins with an alliance - the sometimes ambivalent, often contentious, and almost always misunderstood Franco-American alliance. Paris and Washington clashed repeatedly over how to respond to the dual threat of communism and nationalism in Vietnam when the forces of the Cold War and deconization collided there during the 1950s. When a colonial power leaves a former colony, the new state usually grapples with growing pains on its own. In this case, the South Vietnamese were never given the chance as the Dwight D. Eisenhower administration systematically replaced French control in South Vietnam with American influence. Why and how the United States did so are the core questions of this book.
Lonely Planet offers a fully updated guide to the natural and cultural wonders of a country of sublime beauty. This book will help you discover Vietnam's pristine beaches, lush rainforests, best highland treks, as well as the colorful nightlife of Saigon. It also includes places to stay and eat for a wide range of budgets. Highlights include special sections on visiting hill tribes and language.
Let your senses thrill to the sights, sounds and tastes of Vietnam. Our guide will help you discover the serene landscapes of the Mekong and Red River deltas, dodge cyclists and cyclos in noisy Ho Chi Minh City and drool over exotic local delicacies.
Over 80 maps of cities, town and regions
The low-down on the most colourful festivals, best bars and liveliest markets
Mouth-watering information on Vietnamese food, from noodle soup to grilled gecko
Top sights and out-of-the-way attractions for every taste
Covers major figures and events in Vietnam and the United States from 1945 to 1975. Includes French colonialism, the First Indochina War, U.S. Cold War policy, Ngo Dinh Diem and the Republic of Vietnam, John F. Kennedy and the first U.S. involvement, Lyndon B. Johnson and Americanization, the Tet Offensive, the U.S. antiwar movement, Richard M. Nixon and Vietnamization, and U.S. withdrawal from Vietnam.
