"Most studies of Vietnam fail to fully explain the war because they focus only on American issues, ignoring the complex domestic South Vietnamese political situation. In The Lotus Unleashed, Robert J. Topmiller examines the Buddhist objections to the war that ultimately led to the Buddhist Crisis of 1966.

In one of the first in-depth discussions of an indigenous South Vietnamese peace movement, Topmiller explores the Buddhist-led agitation aimed at installing a civilian government through free elections as part of a larger effort to end the fighting in South Vietnam.".

"The 1966 Buddhist crisis typified America's frustration over its inability to influence events in South Vietnam and underscored South Vietnamese ambiguity over the American crusade to defend them from their countrymen. At the same time, the Buddhist rebellion played a significant role in raising U.S. doubts about its involvement in Vietnam, triggering a decline in public support for the war.".

"Based on Topmiller's extensive research and interviews with many of the participants, The Lotus Unleashed highlights the intense importance of Buddhist efforts, making clear the impact of Vietnamese internal politics on U.S. decision making and the missed opportunities for peace caused by Washington's indifference toward South Vietnamese opinions on the war."--BOOK JACKET.