I wanted to get your guy's opinions on the use of AI in the study of history. Ultra specifically, asking ChatGPT random history questions.

If I am looking for a brief overview of something that I'm just mildly curious about, what would you guys think about using ChatGPT to ask?

As an example, I asked ChatGPT to describe Thailand's role in the Vietnam War, to which I got this response:

"Thailand played a significant and multifaceted role during the Vietnam War, supporting the United States and its allies in various capacities. Here are the key aspects of Thailand's involvement:

Military Support:

1. Base of Operations: Thailand allowed the United States to use its territory as a base for military operations. Several important U.S. airbases were established in Thailand, including U-Tapao, Korat, Ubon, and Takhli. These bases were crucial for launching air strikes, reconnaissance missions, and providing logistical support.
2. Troop Contributions: Thailand sent military personnel to fight in South Vietnam. Thai forces, known as the "Queen's Cobras," were involved in combat operations alongside American and South Vietnamese troops. Approximately 11,600 Thai soldiers served in Vietnam, with significant participation in key battles and operations.

Political and Diplomatic Support:

1. Alliance with the U.S.: Thailand was a staunch ally of the United States during the Vietnam War, reflecting its broader alignment with Western powers in the context of the Cold War. This alliance was formalized through treaties and agreements, including the Southeast Asia Treaty Organization (SEATO).
2. Regional Stability: Thailand's government supported the U.S. efforts to contain the spread of communism in Southeast Asia, fearing the domino effect could destabilize the region and threaten Thailand itself.

Economic and Logistical Support:

1. Infrastructure and Logistics: Thailand provided essential logistical support, including infrastructure for transportation and supply chains. Thai ports, roads, and railways facilitated the movement of troops, equipment, and supplies.
2. Economic Assistance: The U.S. provided economic and military aid to Thailand in exchange for its support during the Vietnam War. This assistance helped bolster Thailand's economy and military capabilities.

Impact on Thailand:

1. Internal Security: The presence of U.S. military bases and personnel had both positive and negative effects on Thai society. While it boosted the local economy and infrastructure development, it also brought social challenges, including crime and cultural tensions.
2. Political Stability: Thailand's close alignment with the U.S. during the Vietnam War influenced its domestic politics. The government, often under military rule during this period, used the threat of communism to justify its authority and suppress dissent.
3. Insurgency: The war's regional implications contributed to a communist insurgency within Thailand itself, particularly in rural areas. The Thai government, with U.S. support, engaged in counterinsurgency operations to combat these threats.

In summary, Thailand played a crucial role as a strategic ally of the United States during the Vietnam War, providing military, political, and logistical support. This alliance brought economic benefits but also posed challenges to Thailand's internal stability and security."

As someone who just wanted a brief rundown this seems good, but I obviously (1) don't know enough about this specific conflict to determine if this information is factual, or (2) know or understand the ramifications of running to ChatGPT and whether or not this is ethical.

As historians, would you (1) say this information is accurate and (2) say that using AI to answer history questions is ethical?