Could LBJ have handled the Vietnam War more effectively?
In this decision-making exericse, students imagine they are advisors to President Johnson. As the crisis in Vietnam deepens, their job is to advise him on the best course of action to preserve his administration (How should LBJ respond to accusations that he is being insufficiently honest and transparent with Congress and the Senate? What sorts of things can LBJ do to boost his reputation with the US public? What should LBJ do with respond to the worsening military situation?). After each decision point, students are provided with a short video clip outlining how Johnson actually responded. They use this to make further notes and form a judgement on whether LBJ could have handled the Vietnam War more effectively.