Introduction

The ancient history of Vietnam presents an intriguing blend of myths, legends, and archaeological data, reflecting the development of one of the oldest civilizations in Southeast Asia. This period covers the time span from prehistoric times to the establishment of the first state formations on the territory of Vietnam.

Mythology and Legends

According to Vietnamese mythology, the first Vietnamese state was founded by Hung Vang, who, according to legend, was a descendant of Ngo Thuc — a legendary hero created from celestial essence. There are various myths about his origin, and they form the basis of the national identity of the Vietnamese people. The main theme of the myths is the idea of unity and solidarity among the Vietnamese in the face of external threats.

The legend of Tong Tu and Long Long, the ancestors of the Vietnamese people, tells how the gods created humans from red clay. These myths played an important role in shaping the cultural identity and self-awareness of the Vietnamese over the centuries.

Ancient Settlements and Archaeological Findings

Archaeological research shows that ancient settlements existed in present-day Vietnam since the Neolithic era. Findings in places such as Kinh Thuong and Hanoi indicate that people engaged in agriculture, hunting, and gathering.

One of the most significant archaeological discoveries is the Dong Son culture, which thrived in the 1st millennium BC. This culture left behind rich findings, such as bronze artifacts, pottery, and ornaments that testify to a high level of craftsmanship and trading development. Bronze bells and other artifacts from this era confirm the existence of a complex social structure and cultural connections with neighboring regions.

Formation of the First States

By the beginning of the 1st century AD, the first states began to form on the territory of Vietnam, such as Van Lang and Thien Lang. Van Lang, founded by Hung Vang, became the first known state in the territory of Vietnam, which lasted until the 3rd century BC. It was a center of culture, agriculture, and trade.

Van Lang was governed by a system of tribal chiefs, and its culture was deeply connected to agrarian traditions. The state achieved significant success in agriculture and also developed crafts and trade. This period is also characterized by the development of writing and the emergence of literature.

Chinese Influence

From the 1st century AD, Vietnam found itself under the influence of China, which had a significant impact on its culture and political structure. For several centuries, Vietnam was under the rule of various Chinese dynasties, leading to the integration of Chinese culture, language, and philosophy into local society.

Despite this, the Vietnamese maintained their identity and continued to fight for independence. Major uprisings, such as the Trưng Sisters' rebellion, testified to the Vietnamese resistance against Chinese domination. These events became symbols of the struggle for freedom and independence.

Ancient Kingdoms and Their Culture

In the 9th to 11th centuries, new kingdoms formed in Vietnam, such as Đại Việt and Champa. Đại Việt, founded by the Lý dynasty, marked an important stage in the history of Vietnam, initiating a long period of political stability and cultural flourishing.

This era was marked by significant developments in architecture, painting, and literature. Vietnamese temples, pagodas, and palaces from that time testify to a high level of artistic craftsmanship. An important achievement was the creation of Vietnamese writing based on Chinese characters, which facilitated the spread of literature and education.

Period of Conflicts and Restoring Independence

Despite development and successes, Đại Việt periodically faced external threats. Conflicts with neighboring states, such as China and Champa, required significant efforts to protect independence. Throughout the centuries, the Vietnamese showed resilience in the struggle for their land, which ultimately led to the restoration of independence.

In the 12th to 13th centuries, Vietnam achieved significant successes in the fight against foreign invaders, leading to the strengthening of national consciousness and unity among the people. These achievements became the foundation for the further development of the Vietnamese nation.

Conclusion

The ancient history of Vietnam is an important stage in the formation of the culture, traditions, and identity of the Vietnamese people. Mythology, archaeological findings, and historical events testify to a rich heritage that continues to influence modern society. The period of ancient history in Vietnam is marked not only by the struggle for independence and the preservation of identity but also by a cultural renaissance that continues to inspire new generations of Vietnamese.