Stanley Karnow (1925-2013)
By Christopher Martin
A well-known journalist and author, Stanley Karnow was among the first reporters on the ground with American advisors in 1959, and focused his efforts on understanding the impact of the conflict on the people of Vietnam rather than purely the politics of the time. He spent over thirty years working in the field in south-east Asia and won several awards for the works he published from his experiences there. Publishing numerous books and receiving a Pulitzer, Emmy, and numerous other awards for his journalism. Famously he was on Nixon's "enemy's list" for his coverage of the conflict. He spearheaded the documentary "Vietnam; A Television History" which went on to become the most-watched public broadcast work during its premier run in 1983. He continued to make waves with his reporting on Asia until his retirement in 2010.
Vietnam: A Television History boasted nearly 9.7 million viewers during its premier run in 1983, nearly 1 in 10 households were reported to have watched some or all of its broadcast, and prompted thousands of letters in support and condemnation of the program.
These lecture series were essential to continuing public education and awareness of the Vietnam War and its lasting impacts on American politics both domestic and foreign. By continuously speaking to and defending his opinions in the public forum, Mr. Karnow ensured his work would continue to have an impact and significance in the education of millions.
Considered one of the most comprehensive accountsof the conflict, nearly half of the work is used to establish the context of region's history and political landscape leading into the war. There are extensive insights provided to both sides histories and is considered an essential work for understanding the war and time period as a whole.