Definition
The Vietnam War was a prolonged conflict in Southeast Asia during the 20th century. It involved North Vietnam and its communist allies against South Vietnam and its allies, including the United States. Think of it like a massive tug-of-war between ideologies during the Cold War. It caused significant political division, especially in America. It was a proxy war, meaning larger powers used smaller countries to fight their battles. It ended with the reunification of Vietnam under communist rule.