A Millennium of Independence: 939 - 1860

Vietnam maintains tribute system with China as a form of protection from Tai invasion

Middle of 10th century Vietnamese leaders establish a Confucian cult at court and in the 11th century a
Confucian Temple of Literature is established in present–day Hanoi

13th century produces significant improvement in dikes and irrigation system

1250's - defeat of the Mongol invasion of Vietnam; Mongols conquer China in 1279 (Tran Hung Dao)
Conflict with Champa (central Vietnam) during most of the 14th century

Chinese reoccupy Vietnam in 1407 - impose a very heavy-handed rule

Le Loi leads a guerilla movement that defeats the Chinese in 1427

Land shortages and food shortages lead to Vietnamese conquest of all of Champa in 1471

Late 15th century basic pattern of Vietnamese politics is formalized: Emperor, civilian and military
bureaucracy, mandarin nobles, and local notables using Confucian ideas, consolidated legal system
emphasis on stability
look to the past
mandate of heaven
little of creativity and innovation
many temples and other ceremonial buildings

Mid-16th century begins a 150 year civil war that leads to partition and the return of Chinese influence

After 1750, consolidation of Vietnam begins:
control over Champa and Mekong delta
Tayson rebellion brings three brothers to power in Vietnam
Son of former emperor - Nguyen Anh retakes power in 1802: takes the name Gia Long
French support Nguyen Anh