What does vietnam mean?
The name “Việt Nam” combines two elements: “Việt”, referring to the people of the southern lands, and “Nam”, meaning south. Together, the name symbolizes the identity of the Vietnamese people and their place in the region. Beyond geography, “Vietnam” reflects a rich cultural heritage and a unifying sense of nationhood that has endured through centuries of history.
Who were the Viet?
The Viet were one of the ancient groups inhabiting the region that now encompasses northern Vietnam and parts of southern China.
They were part of the Bai Yue (Hundred Yue) tribes, a collection of communities renowned for their agricultural practices, particularly wet-rice cultivation.
Over time, the Viet people carved out their distinct cultural and political identity, founding early kingdoms like Van Lang and later Au Lac, which laid the groundwork for modern Vietnam.
The origins of the name “Vietnam” (Việt Nam)
The name “Việt Nam” was officially adopted in 1804 during the reign of Emperor Gia Long, marking the unification of northern and southern Vietnam under the Nguyen Dynasty. Initially, Emperor Gia Long proposed the name “Nam Viet” to the Qing Dynasty, but this was rejected to avoid confusion with the ancient Nam Viet kingdom of Trieu Da. After further negotiations and explanatory letters, the name “Vietnam” was approved and formally established.
Interestingly, historical records indicate that the term “Vietnam” predates the Nguyen era. It appeared as early as the 14th century in writings by scholars like Phan Huy Chu and Le Quy Don, and in Nguyen Trai’s geographical work Du dia chi. Additionally, stone steles from the 16th and 17th centuries, such as the Thuy Mon Dinh stele (1670) at the Lang Son border, include references to “Vietnam,” highlighting its historical resonance well before its official adoption.
This name reflects both the geographical position of the southern people and their distinct cultural identity, symbolizing unity and sovereignty.
Vietnam’s historical names through the ages
Vietnam hasn’t always been called Vietnam. Throughout its history, the country has had many different names, each representing a unique era and its cultural or political significance. These names provide insight into the nation’s rich and evolving identity.
Van Lang (Early 1st Millennium BCE – 3rd Century BCE)
Van Lang is recognized as the first national title of Vietnam during the Hung Kings’ era. This name represents the earliest period of Vietnamese civilization, centered around the Red River Delta, where wet-rice cultivation flourished.
Au Lac (Around 200 BCE)
Au Lac emerged after the unification of the Lac Viet (Van Lang) and Au Viet tribes. This marked the establishment of an early kingdom following the conquest of Van Lang by Thuc Phan, who became King An Duong Vuong.
Van Xuan (544 – 602 CE)
During this period, Ly Bi declared independence from Chinese rule and founded the Van Xuan Kingdom. The name symbolized the aspiration for Vietnam’s stability and enduring prosperity.
Dai Co Viet (968 – Early Ly Dynasty)
Adopted by Dinh Tien Hoang, the founder of the Dinh Dynasty, this title translates to “Great Viet Nation.” It signified Vietnam’s sovereignty and marked the unification of the country after centuries of fragmentation.
Dai Viet (1054 – 1804)
“Dai Viet,” meaning “Great Viet,” was used during the Ly and Tran Dynasties. It symbolized Vietnam’s strength, cultural development, and autonomy during its golden age of dynastic rule.
Dai Ngu (1400 – 1407)
During the brief reign of the Ho Dynasty, the country was renamed Dai Ngu, meaning “Great Peace.” This name reflected the dynasty’s ambition for national stability, although the Ho Dynasty’s rule was short-lived.
Annam (Various Periods Under Chinese Rule)
Under Chinese domination, Vietnam was referred to as Annam, meaning “Pacified South.” This name was imposed by the Chinese as a symbol of their control over the region.
Vietnam (1804 – Present)
Officially adopted during the Nguyen Dynasty under Emperor Gia Long, “Vietnam” signifies the unity of the southern people. The name also appeared in earlier historical records and writings, emphasizing its deep cultural roots.
Dai Nam (1838 – 1945)
In 1838, Emperor Minh Mang renamed the country Dai Nam, meaning “Great South.” This name highlighted the Nguyen Dynasty’s ambition to emphasize Vietnam’s grandeur and independence.
The Socialist Republic of Vietnam (1976 – Present)
Following the liberation of the South in 1975 and the reunification of the country, Vietnam adopted its current official title, reflecting the modern era of national unity under a socialist government.
Is it Vietnam or Viet Nam?
While “Vietnam” is the commonly used spelling in English, “Viet Nam” is also correct and reflects the original Vietnamese usage. In Vietnamese, “Việt Nam” consists of two separate words: “Việt,” referring to the people, and “Nam,” meaning south. Over time, the two words were merged into “Vietnam” in many Western languages for simplicity.
Even today, you’ll see both spellings used interchangeably, especially in formal documents and publications in Vietnam. Interestingly, formal organizations like the United Nations still use “Viet Nam” in their official documentation, adhering to the traditional spelling. However, “Vietnam” has become the more recognized version globally.
