Ho Chi Minh’s Thought on the Position and Role of Southern Vietnam in National Liberation and Reunification

Abstract

This article examines Ho Chi Minh’s thought on the position and role of Southern Vietnam in national liberation and reunification. Drawing on 22 works comprising speeches, writings, letters of encouragement, appeals and President Ho Chi Minh’s sacred Testament from 1945 to 1969, the study combines historical and logical methods with textual analysis and comparison, distinguishing between Southern Vietnam (Nam Bộ) and the broader South (miền Nam) according to historical context. The findings show that Ho Chi Minh consistently affirmed Southern Vietnam as an inseparable part of Vietnam’s territory and national community. He regarded its people and combatants as active and creative revolutionary agents who contributed to the resistance struggle to defend independence and to national reconstruction. Their role was consistently situated within nationwide solidarity, support and coordination towards the shared goals of national liberation and reunification. The analysis identifies three defining features of his thought: linking the principle of national unity with bonds of compatriotship; recognising contributions while affirming responsibilities; and situating Southern Vietnam’s role within the national revolutionary struggle as a whole. Across successive historical periods, the underlying strategic principle remained constant, while the intended audiences and modes of expression were adapted to changing revolutionary tasks. The study contributes to a systematic understanding of Ho Chi Minh’s conception of the relationship between national unity, great national solidarity and responsibility to the nation.