Liberalism and realism are the two major international relations theories. Vietnam was able to prevail over the US during the Vietnam War not because of superior tactics or abilities, but because it was deeply focused on being liberated and on what it had at stake. It also used realism in a way that allowed it to understand what would happen if it was not successful in its endeavors. It was realistic about its abilities, goals, and mission, and the desire to become liberated was too strong to be overcome by the US.
