1) Briefly summarize the roles of both Ho Chi Minh and Ngo Dinh Diem in the Vietnamese conflict. (Be sure to address their roles prior to U.S. involvement as well.) Explain (and thoroughly support your opinion with examples from the textbook) why Ho Chi Minh was ultimately more successful than Ngo Dinh Diem.

2) A number of factors impacted American military performance in Vietnam during Johnson's presidency, including weather conditions/terrain, mobilization and logistical support, inexperience of troops, and fear of Soviet/Chinese intervention. Determine which of those listed you think most impacted American performance, thoroughly explain this factor, and justify your choice concerning its significance.

3) Despite Johnson's statement to leadership in South Vietnam that "...together we'll make the important decisions, things that we don't want the public to know" (Millett, Maslowski, and Feis, 2012, p. 517, For the common defense: A military history of the United States from 1607 to 201, 3rd ed), Vietnam was avidly covered by the media and televised throughout the nation.

It has been suggested by many that this coverage was a significant factor in America's withdrawal. Freedom of speech and freedom of press is guaranteed by the First Amendment, but can often lead to manipulation by the media, misinterpretation by the public, and even the endangerment of American troops. In your opinion, how transparent should government and military leaders and tactics be during times of war? Be sure to thoroughly support your response with pertinent examples from other American conflicts either past or present.