Dear America: Letters Home from Vietnam

This week we will be exploring the perspective of the American soldier during the Vietnam War by watching Dear America: Letters Home from Vietnam. This documentary features all primary sources from the Vietnam war and is based entirely on the letters of soldiers writing home. All footage, images, etc. are real. Make sure to watch them in order. The first one is Part 1, the second is Part 2- (75 minutes total).

Response Questions

(1) How did some of the soldiers attitude about the war change as the years went on and the war the became more challenging?  (2) Do you think that these young men and women understood why they were in Vietnam?  (3) What role did music play in the documentary? (4) Why does Lyndon Johson decide not to seek a second term? (5) How and why do you think American public opinion began to change regarding the war?  (6) Were there any aspects of this documentary that surprised you? Why or why?

Instructions:

1.  Review the film provided for this week in its entirety. Take note of key terms and make sure to take good notes.
2. Write a 2-3 paragraph response to the question(s) below. Be sure to use specific examples from the film. Responses should be a minimum of 500 words.
3. The best responses will be those that can demonstrate a strong understanding of the film AND relate it to themes from the textbook chapters and lectures.
4. Properly cite any references to the film, readings, or lectures. To cite this film in your response simply use the title. For a full review on how and when to use citations see the tutorial on citations.
5. Responses must be in your own original words. The use of outside sources (other than those provided) is NOT permitted.
6. Before submitting your assignment, make sure to proofread and edit for formatting and grammatical errors.