“Beth!” Billy screamed from behind her. “Right. Your right!” She had been just about to fire at the two zombies attacking Mac, and so even as she turned, she did not turn her pistol completely, but kept it aimed to the front towards Mac and the two zombies. By the time she registered how close the three zombies were to her, there was no time to turn the pistol and fire. #Horror #Series #Dystopian #Apocalyptic
The rusty hinges of the dilapidated shack groaned a mournful protest as Bear pushed open the door, the scent of damp earth and decay clinging to the air like a shroud. Inside, Winston lay huddled beneath a threadbare blanket, his breathing shallow and ragged. #Horror #Series #Dystopian #Apocalyptic
The sun, a weak, watery orb, struggled to pierce the perpetual gloom of the junkyard. Its rays, filtered through the grimy haze of industrial decay and the skeletal remains of rusted cars, cast long, distorted shadows that danced with the shuffling figures of the undead. This was their sanctuary, a chaotic landscape of twisted metal, shattered glass, and the lingering stench of decay – their home. #Horror #Series #Dystopian #Apocalyptic
The Vietnam War (known in Vietnam as the Resistance War Against America or simply the American War) was primarily a conflict between the communist Democratic Republic of Vietnam (North Vietnam), led by Ho Chi Minh and his successors, and the anti-communist Republic of Vietnam (South Vietnam), backed initially by France and later by the United States.
North Vietnam sought to reunify the country under a single communist government. Their forces included the regular People’s Army of Vietnam (PAVN) and the Viet Cong (VC)—a South Vietnamese communist guerrilla force supported by the North.
South Vietnam sought to maintain its independence as a non-communist state. Their primary military force was the Army of the Republic of Vietnam (ARVN), heavily supported by U.S. troops and materiel.
The conflict was a major proxy war of the Cold War, with the North supported by the Soviet Union and China, and the South supported by the United States and other anti-communist allies.
French Involvement First (The First Indochina War)
French involvement was rooted in nearly a century of colonial rule over Indochina (Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia).
Colonial Resistance: Following World War II and the Japanese occupation, the French attempted to re-establish their colonial control, but they were met with fierce resistance from the Viet Minh, a nationalist and communist-led independence movement under Ho Chi Minh.
The Defeat: The war between the French and the Viet Minh lasted from 1946 to 1954. The decisive turning point came with the Battle of Dien Bien Phu in May 1954, where the French forces were decisively defeated.
The Geneva Accords (1954): This agreement formally ended French rule and temporarily partitioned Vietnam at the 17th Parallel. The North would be governed by the Viet Minh, and the South by a non-communist regime. Crucially, the accords called for nationwide unification elections in 1956, which were ultimately rejected by the South Vietnamese government (with U.S. backing) because they feared Ho Chi Minh would win. The division became permanent, setting the stage for the Second Indochina War (the Vietnam War).
American Involvement Afterwards (The Vietnam War)
U.S. involvement grew out of the Cold War policy of containment—preventing the spread of communism.
Advisory Role (1950s–Early 1960s): The U.S. initially provided financial and military aid to the French and then to the new South Vietnamese government, installing a series of political leaders, most notably Ngo Dinh Diem. The U.S. presence consisted mainly of military advisors and trainers.
Escalation (Mid-1960s): Following the Gulf of Tonkin Incident in 1964 and the subsequent resolution by Congress, President Lyndon B. Johnson dramatically escalated the U.S. commitment. This marked the shift from an advisory role to large-scale military intervention, including bombing campaigns against North Vietnam and the deployment of hundreds of thousands of combat troops to the South. At its peak, the U.S. had over 500,000 troops in Vietnam.
De-escalation and Withdrawal (Late 1960s–Early 1970s): The 1968 Tet Offensive, though a military defeat for the North, was a psychological and political victory that eroded American public support for the war. President Richard Nixon introduced the policy of Vietnamization, gradually withdrawing U.S. troops while simultaneously training and equipping the ARVN to take over the fighting.
End of War: The Paris Peace Accords were signed in January 1973, leading to the final withdrawal of U.S. combat forces. Fighting continued between North and South Vietnam until April 30, 1975, when North Vietnamese forces captured Saigon, leading to the total collapse of South Vietnam and the reunification of the country under a single communist government.
How many American men (and women) died in that undeclared war?
The total number of U.S. military fatal casualties is 58,220. This figure includes men and women from all branches of the armed services who were killed in action, died from wounds, or were missing in action and declared dead. This number is inscribed on the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall in Washington, D.C.
How were returning men and women, U.S. Soldiers, treated by the American press and public?
The treatment of returning Vietnam veterans was markedly different from the heroes’ welcomes of previous wars like World War II. It is widely considered one of the most painful legacies of the conflict.
The Press: Television news brought uncensored, graphic images of the war’s brutality and futility directly into American homes. As the press became increasingly critical after major events like the Tet Offensive, the negative narrative about the war often spilled over onto the soldiers themselves. Negative stories focused on drug use, low morale, and atrocities.
The Public: Veterans often returned home to an indifferent or, in some cases, hostile public. The widespread unpopularity of the war meant that anger at the policy and the conflict was often conflated with anger at the soldiers who executed it.
Unlike World War II veterans who received triumphant ticker-tape parades, Vietnam veterans often arrived back individually at quiet airports and were urged to change into civilian clothes quickly.
While the image of veterans being “spit on” has become a powerful and politically useful myth, evidence suggests such incidents were rare. However, what was widespread was a distinct lack of recognition, gratitude, or organized celebration.
Many veterans also struggled with the long-term psychological and physical effects of the war, including Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), which was not widely understood or formally recognized by the medical and veterans communities until years later.
Has it been rebuilt yet? How is Vietnam now…
Rebuilding and Economic Status:
Economic Reform (Đổi Mới): The initial years after reunification (1975–1986) were characterized by economic struggles due to the imposition of a centrally planned, socialist economy, internal political repression, and a U.S. trade embargo. In 1986, the Communist Party of Vietnam introduced sweeping economic reforms known as Đổi Mới (Renovation).
Current Status: Vietnam has undergone a remarkable transformation. It has shifted from one of the world’s poorest countries to a lower-middle-income country with a dynamic, market-oriented economy. It is now a major global manufacturing hub and is largely considered rebuilt, economically speaking, having integrated fully into the global economy.
Is it a free country now?
Political Status:
Vietnam is not considered a free country by international standards; it is a one-party state ruled by the Communist Party of Vietnam (CPV).
While the constitution guarantees fundamental rights, in practice, the CPV maintains tight control over political life, the media, and religious organizations.
The government has cracked down on dissent and limits freedoms of expression and assembly. While economic and social life is much more open than in the post-war decades, the political system remains authoritarian.
In summary, Vietnam is a nation that is economically thriving and fully rebuilt, but it operates under a centralized, single-party political system that restricts democratic freedoms. Relations with the United States are robust and have transitioned from adversaries to increasingly strategic partners.
Bear squatted and peered down at the girl and the boy for a few moments before he spoke again. “What do you think of her hand?” Beth squatted beside him and looked down at the girl. She stood and shook her head. “I can’t tell. It looks like she’s turning. Turns black, you know, but just under the skin… like… like a spiderweb flowing out under their skin. Bad description, I know,” she finished. #Horror #Series #Dystopian #Apocalyptic
Things were crazy, and they seemed to be getting worse as the days rolled by. The police precinct was still burning. It had started sometime during the night two days before, and since there was no one to put the fire out, it had been raging for hours now. A few minutes ago, the roof of the building next door to the precinct burst into flames. #Horror #Series #Dystopian #Apocalyptic
By Dell Sweet The Nation series follows a group of survivors as they navigate the changed reality of the apocalypse, where the living are as likely to kill you as the dead are. From Los Angeles to New York and all points in between the survivors come together and begin to live again… #Dystopian #ApocalypticFiction #Readers #DellSweet #EarthsSurvivors Smashwords – The Nation
By Dell Sweet These are the stories of the most popular characters from the series. These stories are written as stand alone books and include just the storyline of the characters they are named for. #Dystopian #ApocalypticFiction #Readers #DellSweet #EarthsSurvivors Smashwords – Earth’s Survivors Life Stories
New York City’s formation began with the Lenape Native Americans, who inhabited the area long before European explorers arrived. Here’s a brief overview of the city’s early history:
Early Settlement
Lenape Native Americans: The Lenape people were the first inhabitants of the region, living in the area between the Delaware and Hudson rivers. They hunted, fished, and farmed the land, and had a rich cultural heritage.
Dutch Settlement (1624): The Dutch West India Company established a permanent settlement called New Amsterdam on Manhattan Island. Peter Minuit, the settlement’s governor-general, purchased Manhattan from the Lenape for 60 guilders (approximately $24) in trade goods.
English Rule (1664): The English seized control of New Amsterdam from the Dutch and renamed it New York City after the Duke of York.
Growth and Development
17th-18th Centuries: New York City grew rapidly, with immigrants arriving from the Netherlands, England, France, and Germany. The city became a major trading center, and its population became increasingly diverse.
American Revolution: New York City played a significant role in the American Revolution, serving as the national capital from 1785 to 1790.
19th Century: The city’s population exploded, growing from 123,000 in 1820 to over 813,000 by 1860. The Erie Canal, completed in 1825, connected the city to the Great Lakes and further boosted its growth.
Key Milestones
1626: Peter Minuit purchases Manhattan Island from the Lenape.
1653: New Amsterdam is incorporated as a city, and a wall is built across Manhattan Island (later known as Wall Street).
1664: The English seize control of New Amsterdam and rename it New York City.
1785-1790: New York City serves as the national capital.
1825: The Erie Canal is completed, connecting the city to the Great Lakes.
Post-War Transformation
After World War II, New York City underwent a dramatic transformation, emerging as a global center of economic, cultural, and political influence. The end of the war brought a surge in population, rapid urban development, and an expanding economy fueled by industries and international trade. The city became a beacon of cultural innovation, with the rise of modern art, music, and architecture shaping its evolving identity ¹.
Growth and Development
The post-war period saw significant growth and development in New York City. Some key events and trends include:
Housing Crisis: The influx of returning veterans and new residents created an unprecedented housing crisis, forcing city planners to take dramatic action.
Public Housing Projects: Large-scale public housing projects like Stuyvesant Town and Peter Cooper Village were built to address the housing shortage.
Urban Renewal: Urban renewal programs targeted deteriorating neighborhoods for slum demolition and replacement with high-rise apartments.
Transportation Expansion: The expansion of transportation infrastructure, including highways and commuter rails, enabled the growth of suburban communities.
The Great Depression’s Impact
The Great Depression had a devastating impact on New York City, with unemployment soaring above 20%. However, World War II brought significant economic growth, and the city’s economy began to flourish. The war effort created new opportunities for women and ethnic minorities in the workforce ² ³.
Post-War Cultural Scene
The post-war period saw a flourishing cultural scene in New York City, with:
Abstract Expressionism: The city became a hub for abstract expressionist art, with artists like Betty Parsons promoting innovative works.
Broadway Shows: Broadway theaters premiered iconic shows, reflecting the optimism of the era.
Music and Entertainment: The city experienced a surge in music and entertainment, with the rise of jazz and other genres.
Challenges and Decline
Despite its growth and prosperity, New York City faced significant challenges in the mid-20th century, including:
Suburbanization: The city’s population began to decline as residents moved to the suburbs, leading to a decrease in tax revenue.
Fiscal Crisis: The city faced a severe fiscal crisis in the 1970s, with a large movement of middle-class residents to the suburbs exacerbating the problem.
Crime and Social Issues: The city struggled with high crime rates and social disorders, reaching a nadir in the 1970s.
The 1970s to the 1980s were tumultuous times for New York City, marked by economic decline, rising crime rates, and social unrest. Times Square, in particular, became a hub for illicit activities.
Times Square’s Dark Side
Prostitution and Crime: Prostitution was rampant, with brothels operating openly and streetwalkers soliciting clients. Organized crime, particularly the Italian mafia, controlled many of these establishments.
Mafia Involvement: The mafia’s grip on Times Square’s sex industry was evident in the 1973 indictment of Martin J. Hodas, aka the “King of Peep,” for running a multi-million dollar pornography operation and allegedly hiring associates to fire-bomb rival massage parlors.
Police Corruption: The police force was criticized for corruption, with many officers accused of taking bribes from brothel owners and pimps.
Harlem’s Struggles
Poverty and Unemployment: Harlem faced significant economic challenges, with high poverty and unemployment rates.
Crack Epidemic: The 1980s saw a devastating crack cocaine epidemic, which fueled violent crime and addiction.
Urban Decay: Many of Harlem’s grand buildings crumbled into disrepair, reflecting the neighborhood’s economic decline.
Community Response and Activism
Despite these challenges, New York City’s communities showed resilience and determination. Grassroots activism flourished, with community groups fighting for affordable housing, tenants’ rights, and social change. Cultural movements, including art, music, and performance, also emerged as a form of resistance and social commentary.
Gentrification and Revitalization
In the following decades, efforts were made to revitalize Times Square and Harlem. These initiatives aimed to drive out crime and prostitution, replacing them with family-friendly entertainment and businesses. While these efforts had some success, they also raised concerns about gentrification and the displacement of long-time residents.
Early 1990s: Challenges and Revitalization
The early 1990s presented New York City with significant challenges, including a recession, high crime rates, and a fiscal crisis. However, this period also saw efforts to revitalize the city.
Crime and Safety Concerns: Crime rates were high, with a focus on reducing violence and improving public safety.
Economic Challenges: The city faced budget cuts and economic struggles, impacting various city services.
Mayor Giuliani’s Initiatives: Mayor Rudy Giuliani implemented policies aimed at reducing crime and improving quality of life, which had a positive impact on the city’s development.
The September 11 Attacks
Aerial view of the 9/11 Memorial and Museum on Monday, May 21, 2018. Credit: 9/11 Memorial, Photo by Jin S. Lee
The September 11 attacks in 2001 were a pivotal moment in the city’s history, resulting in the loss of thousands of lives and a profound impact on national security and global politics.
Aftermath and Response: The city and nation came together in the aftermath, with rescue efforts and support for those affected.
Changes in Security: The attacks led to significant changes in security policies and procedures across the United States, including increased surveillance and screening measures.
Long-Term Impact
The post-9/11 period saw lasting changes in various aspects of life in New York City and beyond.
National Security: The creation of the Department of Homeland Security and changes in intelligence gathering and sharing were key responses to the attacks.
Memorials and Tributes: The National September 11 Memorial & Museum was dedicated in 2014 to honor the victims of the attacks.
Community Resilience: The city demonstrated resilience and determination in the face of tragedy, with ongoing efforts to rebuild and strengthen communities.
New York City has undergone significant transformations to become a safer and more vibrant place. The city’s efforts to improve safety are evident in various initiatives, including the Vision Zero program, which aims to eliminate traffic fatalities. Some notable safety improvements include ¹:
Protected Bike Lanes: NYC DOT has installed protected bike lanes on various streets, such as Seventh and Eighth Avenues, 51st Street, and McDonald Avenue, to reduce conflicts between cyclists and vehicles.
Pedestrian Safety Improvements: The city has implemented pedestrian safety improvements at intersections like Times Square, E 170th Street and Teller Avenue, and Spofford Avenue and Coster Street, featuring new traffic signals, pedestrian refuge islands, and improved markings.
Traffic Calming Measures: NYC DOT has introduced traffic calming measures, such as speed humps, curb extensions, and raised crosswalks, to slow down traffic and enhance pedestrian safety.
Some popular places to visit and enjoy in New York City include:
Central Park: A tranquil oasis in the heart of Manhattan, offering a range of recreational activities, scenic landscapes, and iconic landmarks like the Bethesda Fountain and Loeb Boathouse.
Brooklyn Bridge: An engineering marvel and iconic symbol of the city, offering stunning views of the Manhattan skyline, East River, and Brooklyn waterfront.
Times Square: A bustling area known for its bright lights, giant billboards, and lively street performances, attracting millions of visitors each year.
9/11 Memorial & Museum: A poignant tribute to the victims of the 9/11 attacks, featuring two large reflecting pools, a museum with artifacts and stories, and the Survivor Tree.
High Line: An elevated park built on an old rail line, offering scenic views of the Hudson River, Chelsea, and the city’s west side.
These are just a few examples of the many amazing places to explore in New York City. With its rich history, diverse culture, and ongoing efforts to improve safety, the city continues to evolve and thrive.
Check out this book from New York Writer W. G. Sweet…
The nightmare would begin insidiously, with the faintest whisper of a sound, a familiar vibration that would build, slowly at first, then with terrifying speed. It was the hum of the engine, the low thrum of the car carrying them towards an unseen precipice. He would feel the familiar press of the seat beneath him, the faint scent of Ann’s perfume, a scent that would soon be overwhelmed by the acrid stench of burnt rubber and fear. Then, the unmistakable sound, the prelude to chaos: the high-pitched shriek of tires desperately seeking purchase on asphalt, a sound that ripped through the fabric of the night and into the very marrow of his bones… #Horror #Thriller #Romance #Readers #Kobo #WGSweet https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/the-re-do?
The end of life no longer means the end. Now it means the beginning of death. A new type of life. A hunger machine searching… #Zombie #Apocalypse #ZombieApocalypse #ZombieFiction #Readers #Thriller #Drama #Horror
Wastelands One
Her body shook, but her chest did not rise. She had tried to rise several times before one of the cousins had bound her with rope, hand and foot. #Zombie #Apocalypse #ZombieApocalypse #ZombieFiction #Readers #Thriller #Drama #Horror
Wastelands Two
– he could tell from the way her skin stretched too tightly across her face, the way her bones protruded through that skin in places… #Zombie #Apocalypse #ZombieApocalypse #ZombieFiction #Readers #Thriller #Drama #Horror
