The seven books analyzed here reflect clear and often exasperating prejudices. However, when taken as a whole, their individual perspectives yield a wealth of information, material, and ideas that can increase understanding of both the complexities of America's involvement in Vietnam and the questions surrounding such involvement. (RM)

The Vietnam War appeared to give rise to the "imperial presidency," and then, when the war became protracted and divisive to contribute to the Congressional reassertion of power. But Vietnam really only intensified and accelerated a movement that, in one way or another, would have taken place anyway. (RM)

Vietnam War film can provoke responses among students, and it is easy for them and the teacher to move on to the subjective, and unsubstantiated, conclusion that emotive images had an unprecedented effect on U.S. public opinion, and, hence, on the shaping of war policy. The government press-problem is discussed. (RM)