The Vietnam War
The
Vietnam War is a prime example of how spheres of influence from foreign
powers could converge and result in conflict and war. What started out as
a civil war between North and South Vietnam ended up being a full-fledged
conflict involving China, Russia, and the United States. The struggle lasted
almost two decades, finally ending in 1975.
In this case, as in many similar instances through the 20th century, the
motives of the various interests within the country diverged. The Indochina
region where Vietnam lies had been in the control of France, and was occupied
by Japan during World War II. When Japan surrendered and Vietnam clamored
for independence, conflict emerged. Like in many other regions, the ending
of years of colonial rule brought havoc to the developing nations.
The emergence of foreign interest was made even more prominent by the prospect
of Communism in Vietnam. The West feared that Communism in Vietnam -- or
anywhere else for that matter -- would jeopardize their own powers based
on a republican government.
After Vietnam split into two parts, North Vietnam became communist-run and
backed by communist nations like China, Russia while South Vietnam became
a republic recognised by the United States and other republic nations.
Thus, the stage was set for warfare and conflict on an international scale.
