1968 was critical in the development of the conflict in Vietnam and in all of American history for several reasons. It is in 1968 when American feelings about the war in Vietnam are shifting, especially since there were now 500,000 soldiers overseas. The Tet Offensive took hope away from many Americans because he became a reality that we couldn't win the war. The Hawks wanted to pour more soldiers into the war, but it was quite clear that there wouldn't be a benefit. Johnson knew this and withdrew from the next election, which changed the course of action in Vietnam. Also, Senator Robert Kennedy, a candidate for president, was assassinated in this year as well. All of these major events changed the course of the war dramatically. I believe that 1968 was one of the most important years in American history.