Vietnam War

Definition

The Vietnam War was a long-lasting conflict in Southeast Asia from 1955-1975 between North Vietnam (supported by communist allies) and South Vietnam (supported by the United States). It was part of a larger regional conflict as well as a manifestation of the Cold War.

Related terms

Cold War: A state of geopolitical tension after World War II between powers in the Eastern Bloc (the Soviet Union) and powers in the Western Bloc (the United States).

Containment Policy: A foreign policy strategy adopted by the United States aimed at preventing the spread of communism.

Tet Offensive: A major campaign of attacks launched throughout South Vietnam in 1968 by the North Vietnamese and Viet Cong forces.