THỪA THIÊN HUẾ — The Huế Association of Historical Science on June 24 held a workshop on historical figures who played a role in defending national sovereignty at the Thuận An Estuary and the Huế Imperial Capital from 1883 to 1885.

Dr. Phan Tiến Dũng, Chairman of the association, noted that from the mid-19th century, when the French colonialists began their invasion of Việt Nam, they encountered strong resistance from both the people and the royal army of the Nguyễn Dynasty (1802–1945). Despite this fierce opposition, France gradually seized control of key areas before launching a decisive attack on the nation’s political centre then — the Huế Imperial Capital — between 1883 and 1885. Throughout this heroic period, many figures, historic sites, and events embodied the spirit of patriotism, sacrifice, and resolve in safeguarding national sovereignty. 

Experts and scholars at the workshop examined the strategic role of the Thuận An Estuary and its defence system in protecting the capital against French assaults. They also discussed internal developments within the Nguyễn Dynasty during the Franco-Spanish coalition’s campaigns, particularly the tension between pro-war and pro-peace factions, and their impact on the political and military situation at that time.

Additionally, participants highlighted the role of local communities in the resistance, especially in self-defence, logistical support, and solidarity. They also discussed cultural traditions and folk practices such as ritual offerings to honour those who fell after the capital was lost.

 

Several delegates compared and analysed historical records from Việt Nam and other countries to provide a more objective view of the battles and events at Thuận An and the capital from 1883 to 1885. They also proposed recognising several sites as historical relics and intangible cultural heritage, and erecting commemorative steles to honour this pivotal chapter in Việt Nam's history.

Reflecting on the period, Nguyễn Anh Tuấn of the Huế Association of Historical Science noted that after King Tự Đức’s death in July 1883, the Nguyễn Dynasty was plunged into a political crisis. The rise and fierce opposition between pro-war and pro-peace factions revealed deep strategic and leadership shortcomings while a colonial force was continuously expanding its influence in the region

According to Tuấn, these divisions reflected an inevitable confrontation between a traditional monarchy and the new challenges posed by the Western colonialism — a sign of a political crisis and the comprehensive weakening of the feudal regime in Việt Nam.— VNA/VNS