Famous Vietnamese Leaders

Ho Chi Minh was a Vietnamese communist revolutionary, nationalist, and politician. He served as prime minister and president of the Democratic Republic of Vietnam. Ideologically a Marxist–Leninist, he was the Chairman and First Secretary of the Workers' Party of Vietnam. Ho was a founding member of the French Communist Party and later founded the Communist Party of Vietnam. He led the Việt Minh independence movement and played a key role in the August Revolution against the Japanese. As a writer, poet, and journalist, he authored works in Chinese, Vietnamese, and French.

Võ Nguyên Giáp was a Vietnamese general, communist revolutionary, and politician known for his military leadership and strategic prowess. He played a crucial role in leading Vietnamese communist forces to victories in wars against Japan, France, South Vietnam, and the United States. Giáp served as the military commander of the Việt Minh and the People's Army of Vietnam, as well as Minister of Defense and Deputy Prime Minister of Vietnam. He was instrumental in transforming the PAVN into a formidable fighting force capable of achieving military success.

Lê Duẩn was a prominent Vietnamese communist politician who rose through the party ranks to become the General Secretary of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of Vietnam. He continued the policy of ruling through collective leadership, succeeding Hồ Chí Minh as the top decision-maker in Vietnam. Throughout his leadership, he maintained an aggressive posture, particularly during the Vietnam War, and faced economic challenges with the failure of the Second Five-Year Plan. He oversaw the Vietnamese invasion of Cambodia in response to attacks on Vietnamese villages, leading to strained relations with China.

Lady Trieu was a renowned female warrior in 3rd century Vietnam who fiercely resisted the rule of the Chinese Eastern Wu dynasty. She courageously led uprisings against foreign aggressors, expressing a strong desire for independence and freedom from oppression. Known for her determination and bravery, Lady Trieu inspired others to join her cause in the fight against foreign domination. Her legacy as a fearless leader and champion of national independence continues to be celebrated in Vietnamese history as a symbol of resistance and empowerment.

Trần Hưng Đạo, also known as Grand Prince Hưng Đạo, was a prominent military commander and statesman during the Trần dynasty in Vietnam. He led the Đại Việt military forces with great skill and strategy, successfully repelling two major Mongol invasions in the late 13th century. His leadership and military prowess in defeating the Yuan dynasty under Kublai Khan are revered as some of the most significant achievements in Vietnamese history. Trần Hưng Đạo's legacy as a saint and deified figure reflects his enduring impact on Vietnamese culture and history.

Gia Long was the founding emperor of the Nguyễn dynasty in Vietnam, ruling until 1820. He rose to power after overcoming challenges from the Tây Sơn rebellion, reuniting Vietnam and expanding its territory. Gia Long implemented Confucian principles, reinstated classical education, and modernized the country's defenses with French assistance. He moved the capital to Huế, strengthening military dominance in Indochina by expelling Siamese forces from Cambodia. Gia Long's rule was marked by military victories, administrative reforms, and a strategic alliance with French missionaries.

Phạm Văn Đồng was a prominent Vietnamese politician who served as Prime Minister of North Vietnam from 1955 to 1976, and then continued as Prime Minister of Vietnam after the reunification of North and South Vietnam until his retirement in 1987. He was known for his close association with Hồ Chí Minh, serving as one of his closest lieutenants. Phạm Văn Đồng held the distinction of being the longest-serving Prime Minister of Vietnam, with a tenure spanning over 30 years. Throughout his career, he demonstrated leadership and dedication to the Vietnamese government and its people.

Nguyễn Tấn Dũng was a Vietnamese politician who served as the Prime Minister of Vietnam from 2006 to 2016. He was confirmed by the National Assembly in June 2006 after being nominated by his predecessor. In January 2011, he was ranked 3rd in the hierarchy of the Communist Party of Vietnam. Despite his prominent position, he was unable to maintain his post after the 12th National Congress of the Communist Party of Vietnam and stepped down as Prime Minister in April 2016.

Tôn Đức Thắng was a prominent Vietnamese nationalist and Communist political figure who served as the second president of Vietnam from 1969 until his death in 1980. Although his role was largely ceremonial, he played a significant role in Vietnamese politics, previously serving as chairman of the National Assembly's Standing Committee and as vice president to Hồ Chí Minh. Tôn was not a major policymaker but held key positions within the government, contributing to the leadership of a united Vietnam during a pivotal period in its history.

Phan Boi Chau was a key figure in Vietnamese nationalism during the 20th century. He founded the Duy Tan Hoi organization in 1904 and later lived in Japan, where he advocated for Vietnam's independence from French colonial rule. Influenced by Sun Yat-sen, he established the Vietnamese Restoration League in China. Despite being seized by French agents in 1925 and convicted of treason, Chau continued to be a prominent voice for Vietnamese independence, spending the remainder of his life under house arrest in Huế.

Janet Q. Nguyen is an American politician serving in the California State Senate, representing the 36th district which includes coastal Orange County and parts of Los Angeles County. She was previously a member of the State Senate for the 34th district and the California State Assembly for the 72nd district. Nguyen made history as the first Vietnamese-American state Senator in the US. Prior to her Senate roles, she served as an Orange County Supervisor and a Garden Grove City Council Member, achieving several firsts in her political career.

Trương Tấn Sang had a prominent career in Vietnamese politics, serving as the eighth President of Vietnam from 2011 to 2016. He held key leadership positions within the Communist Party of Vietnam, including being a member of the Central Politburo since 1996. Sang also served as the Communist Party secretary for Ho Chi Minh City and was promoted to the national party's number two slot in 2009. His presidency was marked by significant political developments and relationships with other top leaders within the party.

Trưng Trắc was a prominent figure in Vietnamese history, known for her leadership in the uprising against Han Dynasty rule. She established a Vietnamese government for a brief period, symbolizing national resilience and revival. As the first female monarch in Vietnamese history, she inspired widespread support and loyalty from various regions. Despite the eventual defeat of the rebellion, Trưng Trắc's legacy continues to symbolize the spirit of national resistance and the potential for Vietnamese greatness.

Văn Tiến Dũng was a prominent Vietnamese general known for his service in the People's Army of Vietnam. He held several key positions within the PAVN, including chief of staff and commander in chief, showcasing his leadership and strategic abilities. Dũng was also a member of the Central Military-Party Committee and served as the defense minister for the Socialist Republic of Vietnam. Throughout his professional life, he made significant contributions to the military and defense sectors of Vietnam.

Nguyễn Hữu Thọ was a key figure in Vietnamese politics, known for his revolutionary activities and leadership roles. He began his political career in 1949, advocating against colonial rule and later co-operating with the South Vietnamese government until his arrest. He played a significant role in the Vietnam War, leading the National Front for the Liberation of South Vietnam. After reunification, he held various high-ranking positions including acting President and Chairman of the National Assembly. Thọ was also recognized internationally, being awarded the Lenin Peace Prize in 1983-84.

Dương Văn Minh was a South Vietnamese politician and senior general in the Army of the Republic of Vietnam (ARVN). He played key roles during the presidency of Ngô Đình Diệm, leading a coup in 1963 that resulted in Diệm's assassination. Minh briefly served as the President of South Vietnam in 1975, overseeing the surrender to North Vietnamese forces. Throughout his career, Minh faced power struggles, exile, and political challenges, ultimately advocating for a peaceful reunification of Vietnam.

Nguyễn Cao Kỳ was a South Vietnamese military officer and politician who rose to prominence as the chief of the Republic of Vietnam Air Force in the 1960s. He later served as the prime minister of South Vietnam in a military junta and then as vice president in a nominally civilian administration. Known for his aggressive tactics and flamboyant manner, Kỳ played a key role in suppressing coup attempts and maintaining stability in the country, although his leadership was controversial and marked by power struggles.

Trần Văn Trà, also known as Nguyễn Chấn, was a prominent colonel-general in the People's Army of Vietnam. He held key military positions including Commander of B2 Front and Deputy Commander of the Liberation Army of South Vietnam. Trà was a dedicated member of the Central Committee of the Workers' Party of Vietnam for over two decades. His professional life was marked by strategic military leadership and unwavering commitment to the cause of Vietnamese liberation.

Nguyễn Văn Thiệu was a South Vietnamese military officer and politician who served as the president of South Vietnam from 1967 to 1975. He initially joined the communist Việt Minh but later switched to the Vietnamese National Army. Thiệu played a significant role in various military and political events, including leading a battalion against communists, participating in coups, and eventually becoming the head of state through a rigged election. During his presidency, Thiệu was criticized for corruption, appointing loyalists over competent officers, and his handling of military operations against the communists.

Trường Chinh was a prominent Vietnamese communist leader and theoretician who played a key role in shaping Vietnamese politics for over 40 years. He was instrumental in the anti-French colonialism movement, contributing significantly to Vietnam's victory over the colonial power. He served as General Secretary of the Indochinese Communist Party Central Committee and later as First Secretary of the Workers' Party of Vietnam Central Committee. Despite facing setbacks, he remained influential within the party, eventually becoming President of Vietnam and later resuming the role of General Secretary. His legacy includes spearheading the Đổi Mới renovation that continues to impact Vietnam today.

Major General Nguyễn Ngọc Loan was a South Vietnamese general and chief of the South Vietnamese National Police. He gained international attention for the summary execution of a Viet Cong member named Nguyễn Văn Lém during the Tet Offensive in 1968. The event was captured by journalists and became iconic images in American journalism. Despite being determined to have committed war crimes, US President Jimmy Carter intervened to halt deportation proceedings against Loan.

Ly Thuong Kiet, also known as Ngo Tuan, was a distinguished general and admiral of the Ly dynasty in Vietnam. He served as an official under several rulers and played a crucial role in various military campaigns, including leading invasions into Champa and successfully repelling Song dynasty invasions. Ly Thuong Kiet's strategic prowess and leadership skills were instrumental in defending Vietnam's sovereignty and expanding its influence during a period of intense conflict with neighboring states.

Vo Chi Cong was a prominent South Vietnamese Communist politician known for his leadership roles within the government and the National Front for the Liberation of South Vietnam. He served as the Chairman of the Council of State of Vietnam (President of Vietnam) from 1987 to 1992, showcasing his political acumen and dedication to public service. Prior to this, he held the position of Standing Deputy Chairman of the National Front for the Liberation of South Vietnam from 1962 to 1976, demonstrating his long-standing commitment to the Communist cause in Vietnam.

Ngô Đình Diệm was a South Vietnamese politician who served as the final prime minister of the State of Vietnam and later became the first president of South Vietnam. He played a key role in the establishment of the Republic of Vietnam and was known for his anti-communist stance and promotion of Vietnamese nationalism. Despite facing multiple assassination attempts and coup plots, Diệm pursued nation-building projects and implemented counterinsurgency efforts during the Vietnam War. His favoritism towards Catholics and persecution of Buddhists ultimately led to his downfall and assassination in 1963.

Phan Chau Trinh was a prominent Vietnamese nationalist in the early 20th century. He advocated for the end of French colonial rule in Vietnam through peaceful means, rejecting violence and external support. Trinh believed in educating the Vietnamese population and appealing to French democratic values to achieve liberation. He used his pen names, Tây Hồ and Hi Mã, to express his ideas and writings. Trinh's professional life was dedicated to the cause of Vietnamese independence, emphasizing nonviolent resistance and internal empowerment.

Ieng Sary was a co-founder and senior member of the Khmer Rouge, playing a significant role in the Cambodian Genocide. He was a key figure in the Communist Party of Kampuchea, serving in the government of Democratic Kampuchea as foreign minister and deputy prime minister. Known as "Brother Number Three," he held a prominent position within the regime, following Pol Pot and Nuon Chea in command. Sary faced charges of crimes against humanity but passed away before a verdict could be reached.

Nguyễn Văn Linh was a prominent South Vietnamese revolutionary and politician, known for his leadership in the Communist Party of Vietnam. He played key roles during the Vietnam War, leading resistance efforts against colonial powers and the United States. As General Secretary, he spearheaded the "Đổi Mới" economic reform, transitioning Vietnam towards a socialist-oriented market economy. Linh's policies led to significant economic improvements, reduced inflation rates, and strengthened diplomatic relations with various countries, ultimately guiding Vietnam's integration into the global community.

Nguyễn Khánh was a South Vietnamese military officer and Army of the Republic of Vietnam general. He held various roles as head of state and prime minister of South Vietnam during his time leading a military junta from January 1964 to February 1965. Khánh was actively involved in multiple coup attempts, both failed and successful, from 1960 until his eventual defeat and exile from South Vietnam in 1965. After leaving South Vietnam, he lived in exile with his family in the United States until his death in 2013 at the age of 85.

Phan Đình Phùng was a Vietnamese revolutionary and Confucian court scholar who led rebel armies against French colonial forces in Vietnam. He rose through the ranks under Emperor Tự Đức, gaining a reputation for integrity and uncompromising stance against corruption. As the Imperial Censor, he investigated and removed incompetent or corrupt mandarins. He protested against the regent's activities, leading to his exile. Phan organized rebel armies as part of the Cần Vương movement to expel the French from Vietnam and restore independence under Emperor Hàm Nghi.

The Trưng sisters were Luoyue military leaders who led a rebellion against Chinese domination of Vietnam in AD 40. They ruled for three years and are revered as national heroines. Trưng Trắc became the first female monarch and queen in Vietnamese history, earning the title Queen Trưng. Born in Jiaozhi, they led a successful uprising until their deaths in battle against the Eastern Han general Ma Yuan. Their legacy as brave and pioneering leaders continues to inspire generations in Vietnam.

Cường Để was an early 20th-century Vietnamese revolutionary and nationalist who played a significant role in attempting to liberate Vietnam from French colonial occupation. He was a royal relative of the Nguyễn dynasty and held the title of "external marquis." Alongside Phan Bội Châu, Cường Để was involved in efforts to achieve Vietnamese independence. Despite his status as the heir of the dynasty, he remains known for his dedicated pursuit of national liberation and resistance against foreign occupation.

Huỳnh Tấn Phát was a prominent South Vietnamese architect, politician, and revolutionary known for his significant roles during and after the Vietnam War. He served as the Prime Minister and de facto leader of the Provisional Revolutionary Government of South Vietnam, later becoming Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Construction in the unified Vietnam government. Phát went on to hold the position of Vice President of Vietnam until his passing. Additionally, he is credited with designing the flag of the Viet Cong, showcasing his multifaceted contributions to the nation.

Tran Ngoc Châu was a Vietnamese soldier, civil administrator, and politician in the Republic of Vietnam. He initially fought for independence from the French with the Việt Minh but later turned against Communism. Châu served in the Army of the Republic of Vietnam, working closely with President Ngô Đình Diệm. Known for his innovative counter-insurgency strategies during the Vietnam War, he eventually entered politics and was elected to the National Assembly. Châu advocated for peace and fought against corruption, but was eventually accused of treason and imprisoned before escaping to America in 1979.

De Tham, also known as Commander Tham, was a Vietnamese feudal lord of Yên Thế. He led the Yên Thế Insurrection against the French protectorate in Tonkin for 30 years. De Tham was a skilled military strategist and a charismatic leader who inspired his followers to resist colonial rule. He organized and led successful guerrilla warfare tactics, making it difficult for the French forces to defeat him. His dedication and resilience in fighting against foreign domination left a lasting impact on Vietnamese history.

Nguyễn Tri Phương was a prominent Nguyễn dynasty mandarin and military commander known for his leadership in key battles against the French conquest of Vietnam. He played a crucial role in defending Vietnamese territories, commanding armies at significant events such as the Siege of Tourane, the Siege of Saigon, and the Battle of Hanoi in 1873. His strategic prowess and tactical skills were instrumental in resisting foreign incursions and protecting the sovereignty of Vietnam during a challenging period of colonial expansion.

Vo Van Kiet was a prominent Vietnamese politician and economic reformer who served as Prime Minister of Vietnam from 1991 to 1997. Known for his role in the Đổi mới policy, he spearheaded the country's transition from a subsidized to a market economy. He played a key role in implementing groundbreaking policies such as granting autonomy to state-owned enterprises and promoting free circulation of goods. Kiet's leadership and determination paved the way for Vietnam's economic transformation and return to the world stage after years of war and isolation.

Lê Văn Duyệt was a Vietnamese general who played a crucial role in assisting Nguyễn Ánh, later Emperor Gia Long, in ending the Tây Sơn wars and unifying Vietnam under the Nguyễn dynasty. He swiftly advanced in the Nguyễn army due to his military prowess, eventually becoming a marshal. Following the establishment of the Nguyễn dynasty, Duyệt served as a high-ranking mandarin and viceroy in the southern region, where he implemented effective governance, fostering stability, wealth, and peace. He also stood up against Emperor Minh Mạng's policies, defending Christian missionaries and converts, leading to conflicts and eventual rehabilitation posthumously.

Chu Văn Tấn was a prominent military figure in the People's Army of Vietnam during the First Indochina War. He held various key positions within the Communist Party of Vietnam, including serving as a member of the 1st Central Committee. Tấn also played a crucial role as Minister of Defence in the 1945 provisional cabinet of the Democratic Republic of Vietnam. His professional life was marked by leadership roles such as chief of Interregional, secretary zone party committee, and president of various committees within the military structure.

Đèo Văn Trị was a prominent White Tai leader known for his strategic alliances and military prowess during a tumultuous period of French expansion in Tonkin. He aligned with the Vietnamese Nguyễn dynasty and the Chinese Black Flag Army, seeking support against Siamese occupation attempts. Recognized by France as the leader of Sip Song Chau Tai in 1890, he demonstrated diplomatic acumen and military skill, as evidenced by his successful capture of Luang Phrabang and subsequent alliances with key players in the region.

Nguyễn Văn Thinh was a prominent figure in Cochinchina's political landscape, serving as the first President of the region. A French citizen, he actively participated in politics by joining the Constitutionalist Party in 1926 and later establishing the Cochinchinese Democratic Party in 1937. Thinh assumed key roles within the government, including chief of the provisional government and provisional president. His tenure was marked by challenges, particularly feeling marginalized during negotiations with the Viet Minh. Tragically, Thinh's term ended with his apparent suicide while in office.

Phạm Hùng was a prominent Vietnamese politician who played key roles in the Communist Party of Indochina. He was involved in the armed struggle during the First Indochina War and later became a member of the Central Committee and the Politburo of the party. Hùng was closely allied with Lê Duẩn, a significant leader in North Vietnam, and took command of the Central Office for South Vietnam after the mysterious death of Nguyễn Chí Thanh. He served as Minister of the Interior and eventually became the Prime Minister of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam in 1987.

Jacques Oudin was a prominent French politician who served as a member of the Senate of France from 1986 to 2004, representing the department of Vendée. He was known for his contributions to the political landscape, particularly in matters relating to public policy and governance. Oudin was a well-educated individual, having graduated from prestigious institutions such as HEC Paris, Sciences Po, and ENA. He left a lasting impact on French politics and society through his dedicated work and commitment to public service.