An analysis of the strategy and tactics of the Vietnamese general explains how he effectively countered French colonials and U.S. forces throughout two difficult conflicts by tapping the strength of his society's social fabric.

The Vietnamese revolution and the young revolutionary -- Upheaval and opportunity: World War II -- The war of resistance against France: 1945-1950 -- The border offensive of 1950: Giap's first victories -- 1951- 53 -- Dien Bien Phu, and victory -- The long struggle in the south begins 1954 to 1965 -- People's war against the United States: the escalation, phase: 1965-1967 -- The Tet offensive.