Tonkin Gulf and the Escalation of the Vietnam War,

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The book delves into the controversial events surrounding the August 4, 1964 incident involving the USS Maddox and USS Turner Joy off North Vietnam. Through interviews with eyewitnesses, the author explores the initial belief of an attack and the subsequent shift in opinions over time. Rigorous analysis of evidence, including North Vietnamese communications and naval records, leads to the conclusion that no actual attack took place. This pivotal moment contributed to the escalation of U.S. involvement in Vietnam, raising questions about perception versus reality in wartime decisions.