History As It Happens: Defeat in Vietnam – Resistance
Episode Release Date: April 25, 2025
Host: Martin Di Caro
Guests: Carolyn Eisenberg, Frederick Logeval, Paul McBride

Introduction

In the episode titled "Defeat in Vietnam: Resistance," host Martin Di Caro delves deep into the multifaceted anti-Vietnam War movement, exploring its origins, evolution, and lasting impact on American society and politics. Accompanied by esteemed guests Carolyn Eisenberg, Frederick Logeval, and Paul McBride, the discussion not only recounts historical events but also draws parallels to contemporary protest movements.

The Genesis and Growth of the Anti-War Movement

The anti-war movement's roots trace back to early dissent on university campuses. Frederick Logeval recounts his initial involvement in 1963, highlighting the small gatherings and significant moments that catalyzed broader resistance:

"In 1963, there were only about 25 people picketing Madame Nhu outside the Blackstone Hotel in Chicago. It was the beginning, but it set the stage for the massive movements to come."
(14:35) – Frederick Logeval

As the movement gained momentum, it expanded beyond students to include diverse groups such as lawyers, business executives, and women’s organizations. By 1967, protests had swelled to hundreds of thousands, exemplified by the landmark Pentagon March where protesters attempted to peacefully "levitate" the Pentagon through collective humming—a symbolic gesture that underscored the movement's creativity and determination.

"The Pentagon didn't lift as promised, but the spectacle demonstrated how diverse and widespread the anti-war sentiment had become."
(20:08) – Carolyn Eisenberg

Personal Narratives and Turning Points

Paul McBride shares his transformative journey from a military lieutenant to an active anti-war protester. His disillusionment began during his service in Vietnam when he observed firsthand the lack of coherent strategy and the inefficacy of military leadership:

"When we met General Walt, his briefing on the 'Red Tide' moving across Europe was an insult. It was clear we didn't know what we were doing."
(15:40) – Paul McBride

Carolyn Eisenberg reminisces about witnessing the brutality of the war, which fueled her commitment to nonviolent resistance:

"As I walked among desperate young men, I knew that social change must come through nonviolent action, not through the violence of war."
(65:09) – Carolyn Eisenberg

Political Impact: The 1968 Election and Beyond

The anti-war movement significantly influenced the political landscape, particularly the 1968 presidential election. The candidacy of Eugene McCarthy, supported by widespread anti-war activism, challenged incumbent Lyndon B. Johnson's re-election prospects. Despite Johnson's initial strength, the relentless pressure from the movement and pivotal events like the Tet Offensive led to his decision not to seek re-election.

"The anti-war movement was indispensable in turning America's attitudes toward the war and giving politicians like McCarthy the courage to stand against Johnson."
(30:06) – Carolyn Eisenberg

Frederick Logeval emphasizes that Johnson’s withdrawal from the race was a direct consequence of the movement’s effectiveness, leading to a shift in U.S. policy under Richard Nixon.

"Even though Nixon continued the war in some capacity, the policy was already changing due to the movement's influence."
(35:35) – Frederick Logeval

Strategies, Ebb and Flow of Protest

The movement experienced periods of intense activity and relative calm, often influenced by external events such as military actions or political decisions. Notable moments include the Moratorium Day protests in 1969, which mobilized millions across the nation through coordinated small-scale actions, fostering widespread participation.

"Moratorium Day was brilliant in its approach, allowing non-professional protesters to engage and feel part of the larger movement."
(56:16) – Frederick Logeval

However, Calvin McBride notes that as the war wound down and troops began to withdraw, some momentum was lost as the immediate threat to soldiers lessened.

"As troops started to come home, the direct personal connection to the war diminished, affecting the movement's energy."
(42:17) – Paul McBride

Comparisons to Modern Protests

Drawing parallels to contemporary events, the guests discuss the challenges faced by today's anti-war protesters, particularly those opposing U.S. support for Israel in Gaza. Paul McBride highlights the complexities of modern activism, such as the conflation of anti-war sentiments with accusations of anti-Semitism, which complicates the movement’s message and reception.

"Today’s protesters are vulnerable to being labeled anti-Semitic, which undermines legitimate criticism of U.S. policies in Gaza."
(56:39) – Paul McBride

Frederick Logeval compares the historical influence of university presidents advocating against the war to the current erosion of academic institutions' authority, suggesting that modern universities struggle to mount a unified front against governmental policies.

"The Ivy League presidents in the 1960s were able to galvanize support against the war—a feat modern institutions find challenging today."
(57:34) – Frederick Logeval

Conclusions and Lessons for Today

The episode concludes with reflections on the enduring legacy of the anti-Vietnam War movement. Carolyn Eisenberg underscores the importance of nonviolent resistance and maintaining moral integrity in protest:

"For the sake of our nation’s integrity and the lives affected by war, we must engage in meaningful, nonviolent action."
(65:09) – Carolyn Eisenberg

Paul McBride expresses hope that contemporary movements can learn from the past to effectively challenge current conflicts without falling into the traps of misinformation and divisive tactics.

"The opposition today is critical, and without swift and unified action, the negative legacy of past movements could repeat itself."
(62:17) – Paul McBride

Frederick Logeval adds that understanding historical movements provides valuable insights into navigating present-day challenges, emphasizing the need for informed and strategic activism.

"The work is far from over, and the lessons from Vietnam are more relevant than ever in shaping effective resistance today."
(64:04) – Frederick Logeval

Final Thoughts

"Defeat in Vietnam: Resistance" offers a comprehensive exploration of the anti-war movement’s rise, its strategic successes and challenges, and its profound influence on American political and social landscapes. By weaving personal anecdotes with scholarly analysis, the episode not only honors the past but also provides a roadmap for future activism.

For those seeking to understand the complexities of resistance movements and their impact on history, this episode serves as an enlightening and thought-provoking resource.

Stay Tuned:
Part Three of this series, titled "Defeat in Vietnam: Consequences," will feature discussions with Jeremy Suri and Jeffrey Engel. New episodes are available every Tuesday and Friday on all major podcast platforms. Subscribe and sign up for Martin Di Caro’s newsletter at historyasithappens.com.