Why were U.S. forces withdrawn from Vietnam in 1973?

President Nixon wanted US forces to withdraw and his solution to minimising US casualties was Vietnamization. He wanted to shift responsibility for defence of South Vietnam from Us troops to South Vietnamese forces. The Vietnamization policy led to thousands of Vietnamese troops deserting the war. Also, the strategic hamlet programme was a failure and proof of its collapse could be seen in large cities in drainage pipes where families lived without money or skills.

The situation in Vietnam had changed. Whatever tactics the US used, they did not appear able to win the war since the policies of Vietnamization and strategic hamlets were utter failures. As with the civilian population, the morale of the Us military deteriorated as the war progressed and this contributed to Nixon's decision to withdraw US troops. Men were no longer interested in becoming officers. There were rumours that young officers were being killed by their own men. Refusing orders, particularly in enemy infested areas, took place more often. They were physical signs of disintegration of authority and soldiers were often dazed on drugs and alcohol and peace signs were scrawled everywhere. These were all factors that led to US withdrawal from Vietnam as it became evident to Nixon that America could not win the war.

Another factor that led to US withdrawal from Vietnam was the breakdown of race-relations in the ranks. Blacks had protested that too many front line soldiers came from minority groups. There were also constant feuds between black militants and openly white racists. Blacks developed their own signs and phrases. This was a first step to breakdown of relations in the ranks. This led to lack of co-operation and rebellious behaviour in the ranks.

The situation at home, in the USA had changed. Anti war protest was growing day by day in response to the ongoing events in Vietnam. An unprecedented number of veterans were joining antiwar groups. Among demonstrators were war veterans with missing limbs and in wheelchairs, who had come to hate the war. This was an example of why public opinion was turning against the war.

In the 1970s, the peace movement became more aggressive. Activists wanted to disrupt the US government, physically ending the war by urging citizens to refuse military service. They would also lie in front of troop trains or by sabotaging plants where weapons were made. In a bid to stop the war, several meetings were held and agreements were made for example the Helsinki agreement, which focused on human rights in the world. Also DÉTENTE, which led to easing of tension between the USA and USSR. This contributed to Nixon's decision that US forces could no longer fight in a war which they seemed unable to win and which could hinder the improved the relations between themselves and the USSR.

It can be said that due to increasing pressure from the public and his desire to win the next election, Nixon gave in to public demands and withdrew the Us forces. The last soldier left Vietnam on 29 january 1973.