America's Foreign Policy Practice Exam 2025 – Comprehensive Test Prep

The primary consequence of the Vietnam trauma on public opinion was heightened skepticism toward U.S. foreign policy. The Vietnam War had a profound impact on American society, as it revealed the complexities and often the failings of U.S. involvement abroad. The experiences of the war, including its unclear goals, the extensive media coverage showing the harsh realities of combat, and the significant loss of life, led many Americans to question the integrity and motivations behind U.S. foreign interventions.

This skepticism was compounded by the revelations of misinformation and manipulation surrounding the war, such as the Pentagon Papers, which further fueled distrust in government narratives about why the United States was engaged in Vietnam. As a result, the American public became more critical of future military engagements and foreign policy decisions, assessing them with a more cautious and questioning attitude.

In contrast, the other options do not adequately reflect the sentiment of that era. There was a notable decline in faith in the government, contrary to increased faith, as well as a heightened interest in international matters due to the heightened awareness of global issues stemming from the war. Similarly, public support for military actions generally diminished following Vietnam, rather than strengthening, as many citizens became wary of overreach in foreign conflicts.