Pentagon Papers Released to The New York Times

Overview

On June 7, 1971, The New York Times began publishing the “Pentagon Papers,” a classified Department of Defense study detailing the United States’ political and military involvement in Vietnam from 1945 to 1967. This release marked a pivotal moment in American history, challenging government transparency and leading to significant legal and political ramifications.

Background

Commissioned by Secretary of Defense Robert McNamara, the Pentagon Papers, officially titled “Report of the Office of the Secretary of Defense Vietnam Task Force,” comprised approximately 7,000 pages. The report offered an in-depth analysis of U.S. decision-making in the Vietnam War, revealing that successive administrations had misled the public regarding the scope and likelihood of success in Vietnam.

Key Events Leading Up to the Release

• 1967: McNamara, concerned about the direction of the Vietnam War, commissioned the study to understand the history of American involvement in Vietnam.
• 1970-1971: Daniel Ellsberg, a military analyst who had worked on the study, decided to risk his career and personal freedom by photocopying the documents. Ellsberg believed the American public deserved to know the truth about the war.

The Release

On June 7, 1971, The New York Times began publishing a series of articles based on the Pentagon Papers. The initial piece highlighted discrepancies between public statements and internal reports, undermining confidence in the government’s conduct of the war.

Aftermath and Impact

• Legal Actions: The Nixon administration, citing national security concerns, sought a restraining order to prevent further publication. This led to a landmark case, New York Times Co. v. United States, where the Supreme Court ruled in favor of the press, advocating for freedom of the press under the First Amendment.
• Public Reaction: The release intensified public debate over the war and eroded trust in government officials, contributing to a shift in public opinion against the Vietnam War.
• Legacy: The Pentagon Papers are credited with strengthening journalistic freedom and setting a precedent for government accountability. It also spurred further revelations, investigations, and a deeper questioning of U.S. policy in Vietnam.

The release of the Pentagon Papers stands as a testament to the power of the press and the importance of transparency in a democratic society.