The conflict the U.S. engaged in to prevent the spread of communism was the Vietnam War, which took place from the late 1950s until 1975. The U.S. aimed to stop the communist takeover of South Vietnam by the North, which was supported by the Soviet Union and China. This war was marked by significant military involvement, public dissent, and the controversial use of tactics such as aerial bombardments and the deployment of troops. The Vietnam War profoundly affected American society and politics, leading to widespread protests and discussions about U.S. foreign policy and military intervention.