Scholars, activists, and the public still argue about the Vietnam War, including over American motivations to intervene, the viability of the South Vietnamese government, and if the U.S. lost the war or gave up its objectives due to domestic pressure.

Vietnam celebrates the end of the war with the United States and the formation of its modern nation 50 years ago with a military parade and a focus on a future of peace.

Thousands of Vietnamese celebrated the 50th anniversary of the end of the Vietnam War on Wednesday, in what the country's leader said was a "victory of faith."