Changing public opinion in the US

Changing Public Opinion in the USA

Introduction

Public opinion can play a crucial role in the outcome of military conflicts. In the case of the Vietnam War, changing attitudes within the United States had a profound impact on the war's conduct and eventual outcome.

Early Support for the War

At the start of the Vietnam War, public opinion was generally supportive of American involvement. Even as late as 1970, there were public protest marches advocating for continued American presence in Vietnam.

Reasons for Early Support

• The overarching goal was to stop the spread of communism globally.
• Concerns were present that the fall of Asia and Europe to communism would eventually endanger South America and the USA.

Shift in Public Opinion

From the mid-1960s onwards, however, the tide of public opinion began to turn against the war.

• This was marked by large anti-war marches and other forms of protest like songs.

Impact on the Military

• Public protests were disheartening for American soldiers, lowering morale.
• It also made it more challenging to recruit soldiers, particularly after the Draft was introduced in 1969.

Changing Support in Numbers

• In 1965, a Gallup poll showed a majority still backing US involvement.
• By 1969, a majority (52%) opposed the war.

Reasons for Opposition

• Anger over high casualties.
• The My Lai massacre and other atrocities were publicized, turning many against the war.
• Concerns about the environmental impact of the war.
• Introduction of the Draft in 1969 led to widespread protests, especially among civil rights campaigners who highlighted racial inequalities.

---

Changing public opinion in the US

Political Implications

• If the public opposed tax increases to fund the war or sending more troops, politicians had to take this into account, limiting their strategic options.

Contradictions in Public Opinion

Despite a loss of public support, more than 500,000 US soldiers were still stationed in Vietnam by 1968. The military advantage, in theory, was still with the USA, questioning the extent to which public opinion alone led to the American defeat.

Conclusion

Changing public opinion had a multifaceted impact on the Vietnam War, affecting everything from troop morale to political decision-making. While it was not the sole reason for America's defeat, it played a significant role in shaping the war's outcome.