Ep 7. Johnson, Nixon & Vietnam: Reversal of Fortune

In Oliver Stone's Untold History Of The United States season 1 episode 7, titled "Johnson, Nixon & Vietnam: Reversal of Fortune," the focus is on the Vietnam War and the two American presidents who struggled to manage it. The episode takes us from the escalation of the war under President Lyndon B. Johnson to the eventual end of the conflict under President Richard Nixon.

We learn about the complex web of political and military factors that contributed to America's involvement in Vietnam, including the Cold War paranoia that drove U.S. foreign policy at the time. Stone presents a well-researched and nuanced account of the war, examining the various players involved and the strategies they employed.

One of the most fascinating aspects of the episode is the character study of Johnson and Nixon, contrasting their leadership styles and their handling of the war. Johnson, we see, was a master of the political game, but lacked a clear strategy for victory in Vietnam. Nixon, on the other hand, had a clear plan of action, but struggled to navigate the political and public relations challenges of the conflict.

The episode also explores the role of the media in shaping public perception of the war, and the growing anti-war movement that ultimately led to the U.S. withdrawal. Stone effectively uses archival footage and interviews to bring this turbulent period in American history to life.

Throughout the episode, Stone raises important questions about the moral implications of America's involvement in Vietnam, and the legacy of the conflict in shaping U.S. foreign policy. Yet, despite the weighty subject matter, the episode manages to maintain a sense of balance and objectivity.

Overall, "Johnson, Nixon & Vietnam: Reversal of Fortune" is an engaging and thought-provoking addition to the series, providing a detailed and compelling account of one of the most pivotal events in American history.