How did the Vietnam War increase political and social tensions in the U. S.?

One key reason for an increase was the length and futility of the conflict. As the war dragged on and the public viewed it on TV, public support waned. During the first couple of years, the public believed the US was winning the war. The Tet Offensive of 1968 changed their minds. After Tet, a majority of Americans believed the war was not winnable.

A second reason for public disenchantment was the My Lai incident of 1968. Large numbers of Vietnamese civilians were murdered by American troops. This atrocity sickened many Americans.

A third reason for growing tensions was the high number of American casualties and financial costs of the war. The US had underestimated its enemy. The Viet Cong and North Vietnamese were tough and determined.

By 1968, the war was the dominant political and social issue in the nation. The size and frequency of protests were growing.