COME USCIRE DAL VIET NAM | 1968 | J. K. GALBRAITH

This political essay by prominent economist John Kenneth Galbraith presents a concise yet powerful critique of the U.S. involvement in Vietnam. In just under 60 pages, he argues that America is not fighting communism but Vietnamese nationalism—a conflict that cannot be won and should not be waged. Drawing on historical parallels with decolonization movements, Galbraith proposes a realistic exit strategy to resolve what he deems the gravest issue of the era. His stance led to a rupture with President Johnson, for whom he had drafted an inaugural address.