Lutherans and the Longest War: Adrift on a Sea of Doubt about the Cold and Vietnam Wars, 1964-1975 : Book Review

"Lutherans and the Longest War" by David E. Settje offers a thorough and thought-provoking analysis of the role played by Lutherans during the Vietnam War. Settje presents a detailed account of how Lutheran individuals, churches, and organizations were involved in the war, providing insights into their motivations, actions, and overall impact.

One of the key strengths of this book is its extensive research. Settje draws upon a wide range of primary and secondary sources, including interviews, personal anecdotes, letters, and official documents, enabling him to present a well-rounded and nuanced perspective on the subject matter. Additionally, Settje's writing style is clear and concise, ensuring that complex information is easily accessible to readers.

The book explores various facets of Lutheran involvement in the Vietnam War. Settje delves into the differing theological interpretations of the conflict among Lutherans, highlighting the tensions that arose between the Just War Theory and pacifism. Furthermore, he examines the efforts made by Lutheran individuals and groups to provide support to soldiers and their families, as well as their contributions to peace movements and protests.

One of the book's notable achievements is its exploration of the long-term impact of the Vietnam War on Lutheranism as a whole. Settje examines how the war influenced different Lutheran denominations and their positions on social justice issues. He also analyzes the lasting effects of the war on individual Lutherans, delving into the emotional trauma and moral dilemmas experienced by those involved.

Overall, "Lutherans and the Longest War" is a well-researched and insightful book that sheds light on an often overlooked aspect of the Vietnam War. Settje's exploration of the complexities of Lutheran involvement makes a valuable contribution to the historiography of the war, providing readers with a deeper understanding of its impact on religious communities.

What are readers saying?

The book "Lutherans and the Longest War" by David E. Settje has received a range of reviews from readers. Some found the book to be a comprehensive and engaging exploration of the experiences of the Lutheran community during the Vietnam War. These readers praised the thorough research and well-written narrative that Settje provided, allowing for a unique perspective on the war through personal stories from Lutherans who served. By shedding light on the struggles and contributions of Lutheran soldiers, the book brought attention to their often overlooked experiences.

Another positive review highlighted Settje's analysis of the social and religious aspects within the Lutheran community during the war. The book was commended for exploring the various opinions and debates within the Lutheran Church regarding American military involvement. The attention to detail and inclusion of anecdotes and personal accounts made the book eye-opening to this reviewer.

However, some readers expressed disappointment with the book. They felt that Settje could have delved deeper into the subject matter and missed opportunities to provide more profound insights. Some reviewers found the book repetitive, covering similar ground without offering new perspectives or analyses.

Additionally, a few readers criticized the book's writing style, describing it as dry and academic. They desired a more engaging and accessible approach that would appeal to a broader audience.

In summary, "Lutherans and the Longest War" by David E. Settje provides a comprehensive exploration of the Lutheran community's experiences during the Vietnam War. The book incorporates personal stories and examines the social and religious aspects surrounding this topic. While some readers appreciated the engaging narrative and thorough research, others felt that the book lacked depth and failed to offer fresh insights. Some also found the writing style to be dry and academic. Overall, opinions on the book are mixed, with some readers enjoying it and others feeling let down.

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