The major event that marked the end of the Vietnam War was the fall of Saigon in 1975. On April 30 of that year, North Vietnamese forces captured the capital of South Vietnam, leading to the country's reunification under communist control. This event symbolized the defeat of South Vietnam and the culmination of years of conflict that had seen the United States deeply involved in military operations. The war led to significant loss of life, sparked widespread protests, and deeply affected American society and foreign policy. The capitulation of Saigon effectively concluded American military engagement in Vietnam.