What term describes the perception of the Vietnam War in contrast to World War II?

The term that characterizes the perception of the Vietnam War in contrast to World War II is often described as a "Bad War." This label arises from the widespread belief that the Vietnam War was a controversial and morally dubious conflict compared to World War II, which many view as a "Good War" fought against clear moral evil, specifically Nazi Germany and the Axis powers.

The Vietnam War, on the other hand, faced significant opposition and criticism both domestically and internationally. Many people questioned the motivations behind the U.S. involvement, leading to a perception that it was a war lacking justifiable reasons, which contributed to the narrative of it being a "Bad War." This perception was fueled by factors such as high civilian casualties, the use of controversial military tactics, and the disconnect between government narratives and the realities experienced by soldiers and civilians. As a result, while World War II is frequently celebrated for its clear moral imperative and victory over tyranny, the Vietnam War's legacy is marred by divisive political debates and profound social consequences, earning it the distinction as a war seen through a lens of failure and regret.