HÀ NỘI — Valuable archival documents and images highlighting the resilient struggle of the Vietnamese people over nearly a century under colonial rule, as well as the journey of nation-building during the 80 years of independence, will be showcased in a virtual exhibition from August 15.

Notably, many of these documents are being published for the first time.

The event is organised by the National Archives Centre I to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the August Revolution on August 19 and the National Day of the Socialist Republic of Việt Nam on September 2.

The exhibition, entitled Không Có Gì Quý Hơn Độc Lập Tự Do (Nothing is More Precious than Independence and Freedom), is divided into three parts: The Dark Night, Việt Nam - A Resilient Nation, and 80 Years of Resounding Victory.

Documents and images presented in each section reinforce the message that nothing is, in fact, more precious than independence and freedom. This call from President Hồ Chí Minh is not only a profound truth, but also a sacred goal and ideal that has guided the Vietnamese people's struggle for nation-building and defence throughout history.

It represents the burning aspiration of the entire nation, revealing a tremendous source of strength that has forged our fighting spirit and led to the resounding victories of our people.

The virtual exhibition can be accessed at archives.org.vn/doclaptudo.

National Archives Centre I has also launched the book Phủ Toàn Quyền Đông Dương Xưa Và Phủ Chủ Tịch Ngày Nay (Former Indo Chinese Governor-General's Palace and Today's Presidential Palace) for the occasion. 

The book not only describes the history of the iconic architectural structure in Hà Nội but, more importantly, also chronicles the significant events that have taken place over more than a century in the heart of the capital of French Indochina, now the Socialist Republic of Việt Nam.

It includes small narratives accompanied by archival images, providing readers insights into an architectural and a historical space that ranges from prestigious to sacred. It encapsulates a journey of national liberation and the construction of national sovereignty, offering a profound understanding of Việt Nam’s struggles and achievements. — VNS