I do not disagree with what you say. There was a lot of frustration with the status quo and frustration (as we see currently) can lead to really bad decisions. But there was a lot of positive energy and a desire to make things better. A sense of being part of a movement that would improve the social structure. I simply don't see it as "self-hatred and whining" - just a lot of people who were trying to improve things for the "common man", which was seen as being to the detriment of "The Man". Having a brother in the military, I was saddened by the treatment of returning vets, although I personally saw more of the "hate the war and the generals, not the soldier" type behaviors. And our government was complicit in the mistreatment of vets, as it is today, abet not to such a degree. Whether one supports any military action or not, the average solider/sailor/etc. involved deserves our respect and appreciation, in addition to any needed post-war assistance from our government.There was a lot of hatred shown for those who served in the military.
That stupid Vietnam war was pointless, and it is tragic so many young men died in it, and it’s also sad that those who served were treated like crap. I was against the war then and looking back, still am.
There was a lot of stupid violence in the 70s towards The Man which now I suppose we would call corporate entities. You know, the Weathermen bombing buildings Black Panthers raising hell and student uprisings and etc.
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