Question
Senator George McGovern (D-SD) speaking on the Senate floor on April 25, 1967
“We seem bent upon saving the Vietnamese from Ho Chi Minh, even if we have to kill them and demolish their country to do it. I do not intend to remain silent in the face of what I regard as a policy of madness which, sooner or later, will envelop my son and American youth by the millions for years to come.” —Senator George McGovern (D-SD)
Question
What is the Senators stance on the USA’s involvement in the Vietnam war? Use quotes from the speech above to support your answer. (5 points)
“We seem bent upon saving the Vietnamese from Ho Chi Minh, even if we have to kill them and demolish their country to do it. I do not intend to remain silent in the face of what I regard as a policy of madness which, sooner or later, will envelop my son and American youth by the millions for years to come.” —Senator George McGovern (D-SD)
Question
What is the Senators stance on the USA’s involvement in the Vietnam war? Use quotes from the speech above to support your answer. (5 points)
Answers
GPT-4o mini
Senator George McGovern’s stance on the USA's involvement in the Vietnam War is one of strong opposition and condemnation. He views the policy as destructive and irrational, emphasizing the detrimental impact it has on both the Vietnamese people and American youth. McGovern expresses his dismay by stating, “We seem bent upon saving the Vietnamese from Ho Chi Minh, even if we have to kill them and demolish their country to do it.” This quote reflects his belief that the efforts to "save" Vietnam are resulting in significant harm and devastation.
Moreover, he categorizes the policy as a “madness” that will ultimately affect future generations, including his own son. He asserts, “I do not intend to remain silent in the face of what I regard as a policy of madness which, sooner or later, will envelop my son and American youth by the millions for years to come.” This shows his concern for the long-lasting consequences of the war, suggesting that he believes the involvement is not only misguided but also harmful to the United States' future. Overall, McGovern's speech clearly articulates his opposition to U.S. military action in Vietnam.
Moreover, he categorizes the policy as a “madness” that will ultimately affect future generations, including his own son. He asserts, “I do not intend to remain silent in the face of what I regard as a policy of madness which, sooner or later, will envelop my son and American youth by the millions for years to come.” This shows his concern for the long-lasting consequences of the war, suggesting that he believes the involvement is not only misguided but also harmful to the United States' future. Overall, McGovern's speech clearly articulates his opposition to U.S. military action in Vietnam.