Vietnamwar: Ancient, primitive mantraps.
The concept of non-explosive man-traps is antique, but, in every sense, frighteningly efficient. Just the thought of falling into a pit with sharp stakes, being hit by an arrow, or being crushed by a falling trunk can make the most dauntless soldier be careful.
Thus, the highest value of these traps lies in the unbelievable psychological effect on western soldiers.
It did not take a long time until the Americans figured that enemy mines and booby traps cause fear amongst their soldiers, which ultimately stressed and demoralized them.
In order to face this threat, a massive training program (mine awareness) was initiated for all soldiers. Adequate combat discipline and practice proved to be quite successful in avoiding many losses.
Rainer Salzger
Army Mantraps Minewarfare Soldier Viet Cong Vietnam War