Enthusiasts of Vietnam and tourists visiting Vietnam often ask, "What does Vietnam mean in Vietnamese or English?" This question opens a gate into the geographical location, rich cultural heritage, historical significance of Vietnam, and resilient spirit of the Vietnamese people throughout its history. Let's explore all the fascinating information about this name!
1. What does Vietnam mean?
Vietnam is a country situated on the Indochina Peninsula in Southeast Asia. It shares a lengthy land border with China, Laos, Cambodia, and Bien Dong. Vietnam is renowned as one of the world's most famous tourist destinations, particularly for people who love budget travel. Besides its reputation as one of the safest countries in Asia to visit, there are numerous other reasons for Vietnam's allure. These include its incredible local cuisine, its friendly people, and unparalleled natural landscapes like the limestone karst landscapes of Ha Long Bay. Additionally, Vietnam is home to diverse destinations ranging from high mountains to island beaches, historical sites, and vibrant cities. The country also offers authentic adventures for every traveler, like exploring Son Doong.
After exploring Vietnam's location, let's delve into the meaning of Vietnam. Under the reign of King Gia Long, historical documents record that "the name should encompass the meaning of expanding territory, placing the word 'Viet' above to demonstrate that our nation inherits the ancient land and flourishes, and placing 'Nam' below to signify that our country extends to the southern regions." Thus, it can be inferred that the name Vietnam likely combines the ancestry and geographical residence of our people (Vietnam, the country of the Vietnamese people in the South). This meaning of Vietnam reflects pride, the spirit of independence, and the rejection of Chinese imposition during that era.
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2. Origin of the name “Vietnam” (Việt Nam)
Continuing our exploration into "what does Vietnam mean?" let's uncover the origins of this name. Historically, in 1803, King Gia Long intended to request the Qing dynasty to name the country "Nam Viet," but this was not agreed upon due to potential confusion with the ancient Nam Viet kingdom of Trieu Da. King Gia Long sent numerous explanatory letters, eventually gaining approval to change the country's name to Vietnam. The name "Vietnam" officially became the country's national title in 1804.
However, the name “Vietnam” may have appeared before the Nguyen era, at least since the 14th century, and frequently appeared in contemporary writings such as those by Phan Huy Chu and Le Quy Don. In Nguyen Trai's "Du dia chi," "Vietnam" was mentioned multiple times. The words "Vietnam" are also found on some stone steles from the 16th to 17th centuries. For instance, the "Thuy Mon Dinh" stele (1670) at the Lang Son border bears the inscription, "This is the gateway guarding the northern border of Vietnam."
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3. Different names of Vietnam throughout history
What does Vietnam mean? Throughout the extensive and tumultuous history of Vietnam, the country has undergone several name changes, carrying historical significance and conveying the aspirations of rulers and the populace.
- Van Lang: Considered the first national title for Vietnam from the time of the Hung Kings (early 1st millennium BCE to the 3rd century BCE).
- Au Lac: The name is a combination of two tribes: Lac Viet (Van Lang) and Au Viet, dating back to around 200 BCE.
- Van Xuan: The national title of Vietnam from 544 to 602 CE, symbolizing the desire for the country's enduring stability.
- Dai Co Viet: The national title of Vietnam from 968 CE to the early Ly dynasty, signifying a mighty Viet country.
- Dai Viet: The national title of Vietnam from the Ly dynasty (1054), existing intermittently, lasting about 743 years.
- Dai Ngu: The national title of Vietnam during the Ho dynasty. The term "Ngu" conveys the meaning of "peace and happiness."
- Viet Nam: The official national title of Vietnam during the Nguyen dynasty, with the meanings and origins introduced above.
- Dai Nam: In 1838, during the reign of King Minh Mang, the national title was changed to Dai Nam.
- The Social Republic of Vietnam: The country's name has existed from 1976 to today, after April 30, 1975, when the South was liberated and Vietnam was reunified.
Delving into the question "What does Vietnam mean?" reveals its profound significance—a blend of geographical identity, cultural richness, and historical resilience. Understanding the meaning of Vietnam illuminates the enduring spirit and diverse heritage that define this remarkable nation.
After learning about the meaning of Vietnam in English and Vietnamese, don't miss the opportunity to explore Vietnam travel at prominent tourist destinations such as Phu Quoc, Nha Trang, Hoi An, and Ha Long.
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