After World War 2, the United States was seen as a heroic and benevolent power that had helped to defeat the Axis powers and liberate Europe and Asia from fascism. The US was seen as a beacon of hope and democracy, and its prestige and influence were at their peak. However, by 20 years later, the US had become embroiled in the Vietnam War, and its image had been tarnished by the war's brutality and its perceived lack of progress. The US was also facing domestic problems, such as the civil rights movement and the counterculture movement which also contributed to a decline in its popularity. As a result, the opinion of many people about the US had become more critical and less positive.