Research, ideas, and leadership for a more secure, peaceful world

Past Event
Seminar

The American Experience of Nation-Building in South Vietnam

Open to the Public

Why have U.S. wartime nation-building efforts so consistently failed? At a time when U.S.-constructed militaries and state institutions are collapsing in Iraq and Afghanistan, this seminar looks back further for an answer — to the U.S. nation-building effort in South Vietnam.

Please join us! Coffee and tea provided. Everyone is welcome, but admittance will be on a first come–first served basis.

Date: Time: - Location: Littauer Building - Belfer Center Library, Room 369
Tank from 1st Battalion, 69th Armor, 25th Infantry Division, moves through Saigon shortly after disembarking from a Landing Ship, Tank at Saigon Harbor, 3/12/1966.

About

Why have U.S. wartime nation-building efforts so consistently failed? At a time when U.S.-constructed militaries and state institutions are collapsing in Iraq and Afghanistan, this seminar looks back further for an answer — to the U.S. nation-building effort in South Vietnam. Although rarely recognized as such, it was the most comprehensive attempt at nation-building in U.S. history, and the one for which the most complete documentation exists. By examining the reasons why it failed, scholars and policymakers gain an insight into the limits of contemporary and future nation-building.

Please join us! Coffee and tea provided. Everyone is welcome, but admittance will be on a first come–first served basis.