Yes, it's a fascinating - albeit brief - period after WW2 when the USA (or at least, elements within the State Dept) saw local nationalists as legitimate voices, before the demands of the Greater Game required them to support Europeans, and therefore defend their imperialism. The subsequent shift in perspective caused any number of WW2 allies to become the 'bad guys' within months. And baddies to become allies, of course.
The situation in Vietnam led to absurdities like defeated Japanese troops being used on the side of the French in retaking control.
The situation in Vietnam led to absurdities like defeated Japanese troops being used on the side of the French in retaking control.
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