That Lousy War

The death of Robert McNamara on July 6 has generated some reflections, here and there: a little remembering of the man’s strange place in history. One of the most interesting accounts of his role as secretary of defense appeared in the December 2000 issue of First Things : Adam Garfinkle’s “ That Lousy War: Explaining Vietnam .” Very much worth revisiting. “If McNamara insists on contrition, fine; he has much for which to repent,” as the review essay concludes.

Speaking of Adam Garfinkle, you are reading the American Interest , the magazine he edits , aren’t you? One of the best reads in the country today.