TOW #19: Saigon Execution by Eddie Adams (visual, photograph)

Taken by Eddie Adams during the years of Vietnam War, this photograph was the turning point of public opinion in the United States and other countries. Eddie Adams, one of the world’s top photographers at the time, claims that he did not intend to stir up any strong pro or anti war feelings in America. He took it as another cliched war photo. However, for the public, this photo symbolized the horrors of Vietnam War. In the photo, the general of North Vietnam aims a gun to the innocuous citizen of Vietnam. This aroused more hatred towards communism and Northern Vietnam government in the America, as the public was disgusted and shocked by the ruthless treatments of the Northern Vietnam general. Additionally, the deserted background of the photo suggests the horrid reality of Vietnam War. This picture also made many Americans worry about our own soldiers dying on the foreign soil of Vietnam. The black and white color also has an impact of signifying the dullness and fogginess of every war. It makes the war seem lifeless and somewhat distant. The civilian looks even more harmless and innocent, as he is unarmed and he has his arms hidden backwards, as to indicate that he has no intentions of harming the soldiers. Adding even more emphasis, it is not only the general who is standing against the civilian, but also other soldiers are standing behind the general. This adds to the threatening tone of the photo.

Although this photograph had an immense impact for the public of 1960s, I do not think it would have the same impact now. The public has become increasingly stoic and unemotional as they have watched numerous war videos and photos. Back in the 1960s, this photograph could connect people with the soldiers suffering. However, the current public lacks so much care and nationalism that they would rather take this photo lightly. Also, in contrast to the thin and gaunt civilian, the general who is aiming a gun at the civilian looks well-fed, bold, and daunting. This further reveals the horrors of Vietnam War that most Americans were unaware of.