Mental Floss

MILITARY

U.S. troops in Vietnam.

The Vietnam War was a highly controversial conflict. We break down some of the most common questions about the war, from why the U.S. entered the conflict to who ultimately won.

Colin Scanlon






Bruce Springsteen, Joni Mitchell, and Marvin Gaye all wrote songs about the Vietnam War.

From a now-regretted counter-counterculture anthem to an oft-misunderstood ’80s hit to the song that allegedly got its singer followed by the CIA.

Kenneth Partridge




American Film director Robert Altman.

The seven-time Oscar-nominated filmmaker behind M*A*S*H and Gosford Park, who would have turned 100 this year, changed how we watch—and hear—movies. He also tattooed Harry S. Truman’s dog.

Jennifer M Wood