The American Century: 1963-1989, the watershed of Vietnam, the New Conservatism--and beyond . . . The noble cause" of Vietnam was the longest war in America's history, the most unpopular war, and the first modern war America lost. Vietnam ended the belief that America had a duty to fight everywhere abroad for freedom. It polarized the country. It destroyed the illusion of American omnipotence. And it shattered our faith in the honesty and credibility of government.
This program traces America's involvement in and withdrawal from Vietnam, and the protests and rebellion that accompanied it. It also follows the electoral triumph of Richard Nixon, the growth of the imperial presidency, Nixon's successes--including the great achievement of opening the door to China--and his devastating fall due to the consequences of a "third-rate burglary": Watergate.
Beyond the Nixon era lie the Camp David Accord, the takeover of the Iranian embassy, and the earthshaking changes brought about by the Reagan and the issues of the '80s, including right-to-life conflicts, the junk bond and S&L predators, and the dramatic rise of the New Conservatism and the religious right. Finally, the question arises: If the last hundred years have been this eventful, what incredible changes and challenges might we see in the next hundred?
Harold Evans, picture researcher Gail Buckland, and historical researcher Kevin Baker worked diligently to ensure accuracy throughout this landmark work. This audio program intrigues and involves, vividly bringing to life the power and passion of the American century, a century like no other.