"This book is about the history of U.S. nation-building efforts in South Vietnam from 1965 to 1973"-- Provided by publisher.

Introduction : the nation-building metaphor -- The Diem years -- The Johnson administration and nation-building -- Setting up CORDS -- The "opportunity" -- The Nixon administration and nation-building -- CORDS and the village system -- Implementing the village system -- Conclusion : humility and nation-building.