Vietnamese history has gone through many feudal dynasties with different ups and downs. Each dynasty left its own special mark, contributing to the formation of national identity and culture. In this article, we will learn about the prominent feudal dynasties in Vietnamese history, from the period of nation building to the period of independence and development.

1. Ly Dynasty (1009 – 1225)

The Ly Dynasty was the first feudal dynasty in Vietnamese history to establish a lasting centralized monarchy, lasting from 1009 to 1225. This dynasty was founded by Ly Cong Uan, who moved the capital from Hoa Lu to Thang Long (now Hanoi), opening a new era for the country.

Under the Ly Dynasty, the country achieved many remarkable achievements in economy, culture and military. This was also the period when Buddhism flourished and became the state religion. This dynasty is famous for architectural works such as One Pillar Pagoda, Dien Huu Pagoda, along with the development of sculpture and folk culture.

The Ly Dynasty also made its mark with its victories against foreign invaders, especially the second resistance war against the Song army (1075 – 1077) led by Ly Thuong Kiet. With this victory, the Ly Dynasty firmly protected the nation's independence and at the same time consolidated its position in the international arena.

2. Tran Dynasty (1225 – 1400)

The Tran Dynasty was one of the most illustrious feudal dynasties in Vietnamese history, lasting from 1225 to 1400. This dynasty was famous for its glorious victories in the resistance war against the Yuan-Mongol army, one of the most powerful empires in the world at that time.

The Tran Dynasty was established after Tran Thu Do arranged the transfer of power from the Ly Dynasty to the Tran Dynasty. This dynasty achieved many achievements in military, cultural and economic fields. In particular, the Tran Dynasty defeated the Yuan-Mongol army three times in 1258, 1285, and 1288, firmly protecting the independence of the nation.

Culturally, the Tran Dynasty also left many valuable legacies, including the legal system with the National Dynasty Penal Code, the education system with the Huong, Hoi and Dinh examinations organized systematically. This dynasty was also notable for the “Hich tuong si” movement and the “Sat That” spirit of Tran Quoc Tuan (Tran Hung Dao), becoming symbols of patriotism and the nation's indomitable will.

3. Later Le Dynasty (1428 – 1789)

The Later Le Dynasty was the longest-lasting dynasty in Vietnamese history, starting in 1428 and ending in 1789. The dynasty was founded by Le Loi, who led the Lam Son uprising against Ming rule and regained independence for the country.

The Later Le Dynasty, especially under King Le Thanh Tong, is considered the most prosperous period in Vietnam's feudal history. Le Thanh Tong implemented many political, economic and cultural reforms, laying the foundation for a stable and developed society. He also compiled the Hong Duc Code, one of the most representative codes in Vietnam's legal history.

The Later Le Dynasty also marked the strong development of Confucianism, becoming the dominant ideology in political and social life. The education system was completed, many talented people were trained, making important contributions to the development of the country.

However, at the end of the 16th century, the Later Le dynasty weakened, power fell into the hands of the Trinh lords in the North and the Nguyen lords in the South, leading to the division of Dang Trong and Dang Ngoai, which lasted for more than 200 years.

4. Nguyen Dynasty (1802 – 1945)

The Nguyen Dynasty was the last feudal dynasty in Vietnamese history, lasting from 1802 to 1945. This dynasty was founded by Gia Long (Nguyen Anh), after he defeated the Tay Son Dynasty and unified the country.

Under the Nguyen Dynasty, the country was divided into three regions: North, Central, and South. The Nguyen Dynasty implemented many administrative, military, and educational reform policies, built a school system, developed the economy, and protected the borders.

One of the important achievements of the Nguyen Dynasty was the compilation of Dai Nam Thuc Luc, a massive and detailed historical document on Vietnamese history, culture and society. In addition, the Nguyen Dynasty also left its mark with unique architectural works such as the Hue Citadel and the tombs of the Nguyen Kings, reflecting the cultural exchange between East and West.

However, from the mid-19th century, the Nguyen Dynasty faced many major challenges, especially the invasion of French colonialists. Despite their efforts to resist, the Nguyen Dynasty was eventually forced to sign concession treaties, leading to the loss of independence and becoming a French colony.

The Nguyen Dynasty ended when King Bao Dai abdicated on August 30, 1945, marking the end of feudalism in Vietnam and opening a new era with the birth of the Democratic Republic of Vietnam.

Feudal Dynasty

Vietnam’s prominent feudal dynasties have left deep imprints in the nation’s history. From the Ly, Tran, Later Le to Nguyen dynasties, each dynasty had its own achievements and challenges, contributing to the country’s identity and culture.

The military, cultural, and social achievements of feudal dynasties are not only the pride of the nation but also a source of inspiration for future generations. Learning about feudal dynasties helps us better understand history, traditional values, and valuable lessons that our ancestors left behind. It is these lessons that have contributed to shaping a resilient, indomitable Vietnamese people who always yearn for peace, independence, and freedom.