Identify two effects the Vietnam war had on the world
1) The Vietnam War served as a turning point in global geopolitics, significantly impacting the Cold War dynamic. The conflict intensified tensions between the United States and the Soviet Union, which had already been engaged in a nuclear arms race and competing for dominance. The war further accelerated the arms race and led to an increased sense of paranoia and mistrust between the superpowers. It also highlighted the limits of American military power and influence, leading to a reevaluation of U.S. global hegemony, and ultimately paving the way for an era of detente and a shift in U.S. foreign policy.
2) The Vietnam War sparked waves of anti-war and anti-establishment movements around the world. The war became highly unpopular, especially among the younger generation and various intellectual circles. People protested against the war, advocating for peace and diplomacy rather than military intervention. This sentiment spread globally and led to significant social and political movements, with marches, demonstrations, and protests taking place in countries like the United States, Australia, New Zealand, and Western European nations. These movements not only challenged governments, but also sparked broader societal transformations, including the Civil Rights and Women's Liberation movements, as a growing number of people fought against what they perceived as unjust and oppressive systems.