The Viet Nam War divided citizens in both the United States and Viet Nam, and profound cultural differences between the nations contributed to the horror of the war. These differences remain today. Cultures in Conflict-The Viet Nam War helps demystify the war and educate students and general readers through a clear, historical overview of events leading up to the war until its end In 1975, a discussion of the Vietnamese and American ways of life in the Viet Nam Era, and a wide selection of primary documents from diverse U.S. and Vietnamese soldiers and civilians. These compelling excerpts are mostly from everyday soldiers' letters sent home and from interviews conducted by the author. The documents, presented chronologically and thematically, moving from early motivations to war experiences and the war's end and its enduring legacy, flesh out the meaning of the war for Americans and Vietnamese alike. This volume is unique in including many new personal accounts from ordinary Vietnamese, fighting against and for the U.S. cause. A balanced view of the war and its aftermath presents the suffering of all involved. Numerous photos, a glossary, and timeline enhance the text.