Provides comparative historical analysis of society, political economy, and culture in the U.S. and Viet Nam from the French colonial era in the 1880s to the present. Explores ways that these cultures and politico-economic factors shaped the course of the American/Viet Nam war and subsequent relations between the two countries. Students interact with Vietnamese scholars/activists who lived through the war, Viet Nam veterans, and former anti-war/peace activists. Formerly known as SBSC 381.