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Kill Anything That Moves summary
Nick Turse
Brief summary
Kill Anything That Moves by Nick Turse is a harrowing account of the brutal tactics employed by the U.S. military during the Vietnam War. It exposes the widespread and systematic killing of civilians, challenging the conventional narrative of "good war" versus "bad war."
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Kill Anything That Moves
Summary of key ideas
Revealing the Hidden Truths of the Vietnam War
In Kill Anything That Moves by Nick Turse, the author delves deep into the dark and brutal realities of the Vietnam War. His research, based on extensive interviews with veterans and survivors, as well as declassified military records, paints a picture of a conflict marked not only by battles between soldiers but also by widespread and systematic atrocities against civilians.
Turse begins by challenging the popular narrative of the Vietnam War as a series of isolated incidents of brutality. Instead, he argues that these acts were not the exception but the rule, stemming from official military policies and strategies. The infamous My Lai massacre, in which American soldiers killed hundreds of unarmed Vietnamese villagers, is just one example of the widespread and routine nature of such violence.
The Horrors of a War Without Front Lines
The author then takes us into the heart of the conflict, vividly portraying the chaos and confusion of the war. He emphasizes the fact that the lack of front lines in Vietnam meant that civilians were often caught in the crossfire. Entire villages were considered enemy territory, leading to indiscriminate bombings, mass executions, and the widespread use of chemical warfare like Agent Orange.
In this environment, the line between combatant and non-combatant blurred, leading to the dehumanization of the Vietnamese people. Turse highlights the use of derogatory terms like 'gooks' and 'slants' by American soldiers to describe their enemy, further reinforcing their perception of the Vietnamese as less than human.
The Role of Military Policies in Atrocities
One of the most compelling aspects of Kill Anything That Moves is its focus on the institutional factors that contributed to the widespread violence against civilians. Turse argues that the military's emphasis on body counts as a measure of success in the war led to the devaluation of Vietnamese lives. Troops were under immense pressure to produce high enemy body counts, leading to the indiscriminate killing of civilians, including women, children, and the elderly.
Moreover, the author highlights the role of policies such as 'free-fire zones' and 'search and destroy' missions, which essentially gave soldiers the green light to kill anyone they suspected of being an enemy. These policies, combined with the intense pressure to achieve high body counts, created a deadly environment for Vietnamese civilians.
The Aftermath and Ongoing Impact
As the war came to an end, the atrocities committed in Vietnam were largely swept under the rug. Turse argues that the lack of accountability for these crimes allowed the myth of the Vietnam War as a 'noble cause' to persist. The suffering of the Vietnamese people was largely ignored, and the veterans who spoke out about the atrocities they had witnessed were often dismissed or silenced.
In conclusion, Kill Anything That Moves forces us to confront the brutal realities of the Vietnam War. Turse's meticulous research and powerful storytelling shed light on a dark chapter in American history, challenging us to reevaluate our understanding of the war and its impact. By revealing the hidden truths of this conflict, the book serves as a powerful reminder of the human cost of war and the importance of holding those responsible for atrocities accountable.
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What is Kill Anything That Moves about?
Kill Anything That Moves by Nick Turse is a harrowing account of the atrocities committed by American forces during the Vietnam War. Through meticulous research and firsthand interviews, Turse uncovers the widespread and systematic killing of civilians, including women, children, and the elderly. This book challenges the official narrative of the war and sheds light on the dark and brutal reality of the conflict.
Kill Anything That Moves Review
Kill Anything That Moves (2013) sheds light on the lesser-known brutalities committed during the Vietnam War. Here's why this book is a necessary read:
- Through meticulous research, it uncovers the gruesome truths about the war's atrocities, challenging conventional narratives.
- It delves into the complexities of civilian massacres and military operations, offering a deeper understanding of the conflict.
- With a focus on the human cost of war, it compels readers to confront uncomfortable realities and rethink historical perspectives.
Who should read Kill Anything That Moves?
Readers who are interested in understanding the dark realities of war
Individuals who want to gain a deeper insight into the Vietnam War and its impact on civilians
People who are open to challenging their preconceived notions about the conduct of American military forces
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Book summaries like Kill Anything That Moves
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Kill Anything That Moves FAQs
What is the main message of Kill Anything That Moves?
The main message of Kill Anything That Moves sheds light on the brutal realities of the Vietnam War.
How long does it take to read Kill Anything That Moves?
Reading Kill Anything That Moves takes a few hours. The Blinkist summary can be read in just minutes.
Is Kill Anything That Moves a good book? Is it worth reading?
Kill Anything That Moves is a compelling read exposing hidden truths. It's a valuable insight into wartime atrocities.
Who is the author of Kill Anything That Moves?
The author of Kill Anything That Moves is Nick Turse.
What to read after Kill Anything That Moves?
If you're wondering what to read next after Kill Anything That Moves, here are some recommendations we suggest:
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