Ep 54. Vietnam: Johnson's Battleground

Vietnam: Johnson's Battleground is the fifty-fourth episode of the first season of the historical documentary series Secrets of War. This episode takes us through the turbulent era of the Vietnam War, during which President Lyndon B. Johnson became embroiled in a battle that would shape both the country's history and the political landscape of the world.

Johnson inherited the Vietnam conflict from his predecessor John F. Kennedy, and was determined to win the war. However, his approach to the conflict was plagued by indecisiveness, leading to a quagmire that would last for years. This episode examines the factors that led to Johnson's escalation of the conflict, as well as the human cost of the war.

One of the primary focuses of this episode is the Gulf of Tonkin incident, which occurred in August 1964. This incident, which was later revealed to be based on faulty information, led to Johnson's decision to escalate American involvement in the war. The episode delves into the details of the incident, including the conflicting reports and the political pressure that influenced Johnson's actions.

Another key aspect of Johnson's involvement in the Vietnam War was his relationship with the military. The episode touches on the strained relationship between Johnson and General William Westmoreland, and the tensions that arose between the military and the administration over strategy and tactics.

The episode also explores the growing anti-war movement that emerged during this period, and the role it played in shaping public opinion about the conflict. It covers the protests that took place across the country, including the Chicago Democratic National Convention in 1968, and the role of the media in shaping public perception of the war.

Overall, Vietnam: Johnson's Battleground provides a comprehensive look at one of the most tumultuous periods in American history. Through archival footage and expert commentary, the episode takes viewers on a journey through the decisions and events that shaped the Vietnam War, and the impact it had on American society.