President Kennedy Explains Why We Are in Vietnam,” in Reading the American Past, Volume 2: From 1865,
Fifth Edition (Boston: Bedford/St. Martin’s, 2012), 273-276.]
Discuss the debate that occurred over American military action in Vietnam. Describe at least one argument that
favored American involvement in the war and one that opposed it. Briefly evaluate the strength of each
argument (3 pts).
List one of the important historical person or groups involved in the Vietnam War (1 pt)
In the space below evaluate the choices this person or the representatives of this group made. Discuss the
ethical implications of the choices. Whose interests did their actions serve? What were the social benefits,
costs or limits of their decisions? (2 pts)
Briefly describe how American involvement in the Vietnam War affected America’s standing in the global
community?