The History of Vietnam: Tracing the Steps of a Resilient Nation | Paperback Book

This book provides an overview of Vietnam's history over 4,000 years, from ancient times to the modern era. It covers political, cultural, and social developments across different periods.

Key Topics Covered:

• Ancient and Legendary Period: Origins associated with figures like Lạc Long Quân and Âu Cơ, and early kingdoms.
• Resistance Movements: The Trưng Sisters' revolt and campaigns against Chinese forces.
• Medieval Conflicts: Battles against Mongol invasions, including the Bạch Đằng River engagement.
• Independence Struggles: Lê Lợi's campaigns and later dynastic changes.
• Colonial and 20th-Century Era: French rule, resistance groups, and events leading to independence.

Reader Feedback Example: "This book covers historical events and figures across centuries." – Dr. Linh Nguyen (Cultural Historian)

Book Features:

• Chronological structure with references to major periods.
• Intended Audience: Suitable for readers interested in Southeast Asian history.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

CHAPTER 1: THE MYTHICAL BEGINNINGS AND EARLY PREHISTORY

• Origins in legend: Lạc Long Quân and Âu Cơ
• Early archaeological findings in caves and rock shelters
• Transition from hunting-gathering to the first steps of agriculture

CHAPTER 2: THE DONG SON CULTURE AND THE RISE OF VĂN LANG

• Development of bronze metallurgy and the iconic Dong Son drums
• Formation of a surplus-based economy and social hierarchies
• Legendary Hùng Kings and the establishment of Văn Lang

CHAPTER 3: THE ÂU LẠC KINGDOM AND AN DƯƠNG VƯƠNG

• Consolidation of power under An Dương Vương
• Construction of Cổ Loa Citadel and its significance
• Key military strategies and confrontations

CHAPTER 4: THE START OF CHINESE DOMINATION (FIRST CHINESE RULE PERIOD)

• Transition from indigenous rule to foreign governance
• Cultural and administrative changes under Chinese influence
• Resistance efforts and early anti-domination sentiments

CHAPTER 5: THE TRƯNG SISTERS’ UPRISING AND BRIEF INDEPENDENCE

• The leadership of Trưng Trắc and Trưng Nhị
• Driving out Chinese forces and establishing local rule
• Impact of their short-lived independence on Vietnamese identity

CHAPTER 6: LATER CHINESE DOMINATION AND THE SPREAD OF BUDDHISM

• Reassertion of Chinese control and new administrative structures
• Introduction and gradual acceptance of Buddhism
• Cultural exchange and adaptation of Chinese customs

CHAPTER 7: THE RISE OF INDEPENDENT DYNASTIES: EARLY LY AND THE ROLE OF REGIONAL LORDS

• Decline of Chinese authority and local power struggles
• Emergence of the Early Ly rulers
• Local lords shaping governance and paving the path to full independence

CHAPTER 8: THE GOLDEN AGE OF THE LÝ DYNASTY

• Establishment of a strong central government
• Cultural and educational developments
• Architectural advancements and religious patronage

CHAPTER 9: THE TRẦN DYNASTY AND MONGOL INVASIONS

• Transition of power from Lý to Trần
• Military reforms and heroic defensive campaigns against the Mongols
• Socio-political impacts of repeated invasions

CHAPTER 10: DECLINE OF THE TRẦN AND THE RISE OF THE HỒ

• Signs of weakening internal structures under the late Trần
• Reforms and centralization attempts by the Hồ rulers
• Mounting challenges that set the stage for further conflict

CHAPTER 11: THE FOURTH CHINESE DOMINATION AND THE LÊ LỢI REBELLION

• Chinese reoccupation and implementation of direct rule
• Lê Lợi’s strategic rebellion and public support
• Key victories that restored autonomy

CHAPTER 12: THE PEAK OF THE LÊ DYNASTY

• Consolidation of power and administrative excellence
• Renewed focus on Confucian education and the civil service exam
• Cultural renaissance in literature and the arts

CHAPTER 13: THE MẠC USURPATION AND LÊ RESTORATION

• Political upheaval and the rise of the Mạc regime
• Civil strife and internal factions
• Restoration of the Lê lineage and its consequences

CHAPTER 14: THE RISE OF THE TRỊNH AND NGUYỄN LORDS (NORTH VS. SOUTH)

• Territorial division and dual rule
• Economic growth through trade and maritime activity
• Recurring conflicts and negotiations between northern and southern powers

CHAPTER 15: THE TÂY SƠN REBELLION

• Origins of the rebellion under the Tây Sơn brothers
• Overthrow of the Trịnh and Nguyễn elites
• Reforms and attempts at unification

CHAPTER 16: THE REUNIFICATION UNDER EMPEROR GIA LONG

• Defeat of the Tây Sơn by Nguyễn Ánh (Emperor Gia Long)
• Foundation of the Nguyễn Dynasty and establishment of the imperial court
• Centralization of power and administrative reorganization

CHAPTER 17: THE NGUYỄN DYNASTY’S EARLY REFORMS AND CHALLENGES

• Social and economic policies aimed at modernization
• Regional threats and internal resistance
• Attempts to balance traditional values with foreign ideas

CHAPTER 18: THE LATE NGUYỄN PERIOD AND FOREIGN PRESSURES

• Growing European influence in trade and politics
• Internal strife and weakening governance structures
• Diplomatic efforts to mitigate external encroachment

CHAPTER 19: THE FRENCH CONQUEST AND COLONIAL ADMINISTRATION

• Military campaigns leading to French dominance
• Establishment of colonial policies and economic exploitation
• Social and cultural impact on Vietnamese society

CHAPTER 20: RESISTANCE MOVEMENTS IN THE LATE COLONIAL ERA

• Emergence of patriotic uprisings and secret societies
• Reactions to oppressive policies and nationalist sentiments
• The evolving spirit of Vietnamese resilience

Product Details

Dimensions: 5.8 × 8.3 inches / 15.24 x 22.86 cm
Cover: Paperback