A Brief History of Hanoi, Vietnam: From Ancient Capital to Urban Hub
The history of Hanoi is a story of both pride and pain. Hanoi, the cultural capital of Vietnam founded about 1000 years ago is a living museum of Vietnamese identity. It is a city where colonial era infrastructure coexists with modernity. Hanoi became the capital of Vietnam in 1010 AD; it was named as Thang Long (Rising Dragon) by Ly Dynasty.
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History of Hanoi
There is archaeological evidence of habitation dating back 3000+ years. During that time the rise of the Âu Lạc Kingdom takes place which was ruled by the ruler called Thục Phán also known as An Dương Vương. The Co Loa Citadel located about 16 kilometers from Hanoi was built by An Dương Vương during that time. It is a symbol of Vietnamese craft. There are many mythological stories from that time include on where An Dương Vương could throw thousands of arrows at once.
Chinese Domination (111 BCE – 939 CE)
After the Âu Lạc Kingdom, was annexed by Han Dynasty, the region around modern-day Hanoi became a part of imperial China for nearly a thousand years. Cultural assimilation took place. Chinese infrastructure deeply influenced Vietnamese society that time. Spread of Confucianism happened. During that period, it was known as Tống Bình, later Đại La-a regional Centre of Chinese empire.
Cultural suppression and imposing Chinese customs happened. The indigenous identity of Vietnamese people was lost during Han dynasty.
Founding of Thăng Long (1010 CE)
During the 10th century emperor Lý Thái Tổ moved the capital from Hoa Lư to Đại La to Hanoi and named Thăng Long (meaning Rising Dragon). This marked the beginning of Hanoi as a political center.
The Temple of Literature was the major infrastructure development during the Lý Dynasty. It became a cultural icon of the city.
French Colonial Rule (1833-1954)
Hanoi became the capital during French Rule. The French built landmarks like the Hanoi Opera House and Long Biên Bridge, giving the city its unique architectural blend that imitate French infra.
Declaration of Independence (1945)
Vietnam gained independence on September 2, 1945 proclaimed by Ho Chi Minh at Ba Đình Square, right in the heart of Hanoi.
In 2010, Hanoi threw a millennium-sized party to mark 1000 years since it first made headlines as Thăng Long — same city, new name, still aging gracefully.
This is a brief history of Hanoi. I hope you enjoy it. Thanks for your time.
Also read: Our Ultimate Hanoi Travel Guide
Learn more: Ha Noi | Vietnam Tourism
