I have a debate coming up, and I got the worst side and topic possible.
I need to debate that the Vietnam War was not an example of Imperialism. I've learned the definition of Imperialism, and I have also gone through the arduous task of learning the history of the Vietnam war. Right now it seems as if the Vietnam WAS an example of American Imperialism, but I need help how its not. Help will be greatly appreciated!!
Let's look at the facts.
The Cold War was in full force. The American rhetoric portrayed an evil Communist-dominated world unless SOMEONE did something about it. South Vietnam pleaded for our help to defend it in its civil war against the Communist North Vietnam.
The fear of communism was the motivating factor in our involvement in this civil war -- not our imperialism.
Thanks for the help guys, I think what threw me off was the definition of Imperialism, I interpreted it as any spreading of ideals and values into another nation. Thanks once again!
I disagree with your conclusion that it was imperialism.
What if the following occured: Fxxxxxxxx Rubber had rubber plantations in SV, and was worried that liberation folks wanted to turn the South into a communist land and take those rubber plantations away from Fxxxxxxx Rubber. Thence Fxxxxxxxx Rubber asked a Senator to intervene with the President on their behalf to send advisors to the south to train the S military, then a corrupt, useless organization.
From there, when it was obvious the NV were behind the liberation, the new President decided to take a stand against that "aggression" and assist the SV even more. Then Russian and China decided to assist the NV to counter the US assistance. Then it snowballed to brinkmanship. How can this be imperialism?
As bad as the politics and decisions were, and the lack of national interest the US really had (Fxxxxxxxx Rubber does not represent the total national interest), and the corruption and ineptness in the SV government, I don't see imperialism being a factor.
PS: I did not enjoy being in Vietnam.
I understand that you have been tasked with debating that the Vietnam War was not an example of Imperialism, despite the fact that it may initially seem that way. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to approach this topic and argue against the claim:
1. Define Imperialism: Begin by clearly defining what imperialism means. Explain that imperialism refers to a policy or ideology where a powerful nation extends its influence, control, or dominance over weaker nations or regions either directly or indirectly.
2. Analyze American motives: Investigate the primary motives behind the United States' involvement in the Vietnam War. While it is true that the U.S. had political and economic interests in the region, argue that these motives do not necessarily equate to imperialism. Instead, focus on other factors such as containment of communism, the domino theory, and the desire to support South Vietnam's right to self-determination.
3. Consider geopolitical context: Highlight the geopolitical context of the Cold War. Emphasize that the Vietnam War was fought within the context of the broader Cold War struggle between the United States and the Soviet Union. Argue that the U.S. involvement in Vietnam can be seen as an attempt to prevent the spread of communism and protect its national security interests rather than as a purely imperialistic endeavor.
4. Discuss self-determination: Address the principle of self-determination. Point out that the U.S. claimed it was intervening in Vietnam to protect the freedom and self-determination of South Vietnam against communist forces from the North. Argue that supporting South Vietnam's desire to remain independent does not align with a purely imperialistic agenda.
5. Analyze the aftermath: Examine the outcome of the Vietnam War and its impact on U.S. foreign policy. Discuss how the costly and divisive nature of the war led to a shift in American public sentiment and a reevaluation of interventionist policies. Argue that if the U.S. had pursued imperialistic goals, it would have sought to control or dominate Vietnam even after the war, rather than gradually withdrawing its forces.
6. Mention counterarguments: Acknowledge the counterarguments that support the view of the Vietnam War as an example of American Imperialism. Briefly touch upon these arguments but explain why they are not sufficient to establish the war as truly imperialistic.
Remember to approach this debate with a balanced and well-researched perspective. Acknowledge the complexities of the Vietnam War while presenting a coherent argument against the claim of it being an example of American Imperialism. Good luck!