Why did the U.S. remain in Vietnam?

sutton amy a (aasutt@mail.wm.edu)
Thu, 31 Oct 1996 18:48:55 -0500

Hi there,

I am a sophomore at the College of William and Mary and I am
writing a 20 page research paper about Vietnam. I am trying to figure
out a puzzle. Why did America remain involved in the war when there
seemed to be many reasons to withdraw (i.e. protest at home, military
defeat, casualties, etc.). Was the sole reaon to remain in battle to try
and stop communism? Or were there behind the scenes politics? Or did
America just not want to appear weak to the rest of the world? If anyone
has any insights or arguments for either side, I would appreciate them.
Thank you very much!

Amy Sutton
The College of William and Mary
aasutt@mail.wm.edu