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The Birth and Significance of the August Revolution’s Victory

In 2022, we commemorate the 77th anniversary of the August Revolution's success (August 19, 1945), a pivotal event that marked the birth of the Democratic Republic of Vietnam.

Administrator

14 July, 2024

August Revolution Day is a significant national commemorative holiday, a day to honor and remember the liberation and nation-building efforts of the Vietnamese people. Let’s explore and learn more about this important day in Vietnam’s history.

1. Understanding the August Revolution – 19th August

Origins of the August Revolution

As World War II neared its end with the Soviet Union’s victory over Nazi Germany in early 1945, followed by Germany’s unconditional surrender, the war in Europe came to a close. On May 9, 1945, Japan, the other major Axis power, surrendered, bringing World War II to an end globally.

In Vietnam, the Japanese colonial rulers overthrew the French in a coup on March 9, 1945. Seizing the opportunity for an uprising, the Viet Minh Headquarters issued directives to establish People’s Liberation Committees at various levels and prepare for the formation of the National Liberation Committee of Vietnam, also known as the Provisional Revolutionary Government of Vietnam, on April 16, 1945.

For further reference: 10 Interesting Facts About Vietnam

On August 16, 1945, President Ho Chi Minh sent a letter calling for a general uprising of the people

In early May 1945, Uncle Ho returned to Tan Trao, Tuyen Quang, from Cao Bang, choosing it as the base to direct the revolution across the country and prepare for a National Congress. At 11 p.m. on August 13, 1945, the Uprising Committee issued Military Order No. 1, calling for a general uprising.

On August 16, 1945, President Ho Chi Minh sent a letter appealing to the entire population to rise up, stating, “The hour of decision for our nation’s destiny has arrived. All people of Vietnam, let us rise up with our own strength to liberate ourselves.”

Thanks to the leadership of the Communist Party of Vietnam and President Ho Chi Minh, the people of Vietnam rose up in a general uprising, seizing power:

The general uprising achieved complete victory within 15 days

From August 14 to August 18, 1945, the general uprising erupted and succeeded in Bac Giang, Hai Duong, Ha Tinh, Hoi An, and Quang Nam.
On August 19, 1945, the uprising prevailed in Hanoi, with the people seizing power.
On August 23, 1945, the uprising was victorious in Hue, Bac Kan, Hoa Binh, Haiphong, Ha Dong, Quang Binh, Quang Tri, Binh Dinh, Gia Lai, and Bac Lieu.
On August 25, 2022, the uprising succeeded in Saigon-Gia Dinh, Kon Tum, Soc Trang, Vinh Long, Tra Vinh, Bien Hoa, Tay Ninh, and Ben Tre.
In Con Dao, the Party Committee of Con Dao Prison led imprisoned revolutionaries in an uprising to seize control of the prison.

Within just 15 days, the general uprising achieved complete victory, and the people held power throughout the country.

Historical Significance of the August Revolution

/1945 marked the success of the Vietnamese revolution, freeing the country from nearly a century of French colonial rule, abolishing the feudal system, and establishing the Democratic Republic of Vietnam. Additionally, the success of the August Revolution in 1945 affirmed the leadership of the Communist Party of Vietnam in the national liberation movement.

August 19, 1945, marked the triumph of the Vietnamese revolution

This day also honors and remembers the sacrifices and contributions of the people’s police force, which played a pivotal role in maintaining social order and security during the wars and was at the forefront of defending the nation.

For further exploration: Historical Significance of the August Revolution

2. Commemorative Activities for the August Revolution Success

On the occasion of the August Revolution anniversary, each province and city across the country organizes various activities, including:

Cultural and artistic performances are held to commemorate the anniversary on August 19

Cultural and artistic events to honor the contributions of our forefathers and soldiers in nation-building.
Organizing rallies and decorating streets with banners, posters, and propaganda paintings in the city’s main centers.
Producing special reports, articles, and television and radio programs to commemorate the 77th anniversary of the August Revolution and the National Day of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam.

3. Unforgettable Songs About the August Revolution

The National Anthem, “Tien Quan Ca,” composed by the late musician Van Cao

“August 19” by musician Xuan Oanh, performed by a choir
“Tien Quan Ca” (The Marching Song) by musician Van Cao, performed by a choir
“Len Dang” (Onwards) by musician Luu Huu Phuc, performed by a choir
“Tieng Goi Thanh Nien” (Call of the Youth) by musician Luu Huu Phuc, performed by a choir
“Cung Nhau Di Hong Binh” (Let’s Go, Red Soldiers) by musician Hoang Van, performed by a choir
“Diet Phat Xit” (Destroy the Fascists) by musician Nguyen Dinh Thi, performed by Hoang Anh
“Mua Xuan Tren Thanh Pho Ho Chi Minh” (Spring in Ho Chi Minh City) by musician Xuan Hong, performed by Dam Vinh Hung
“Tien Ve Sai Gon” (March to Saigon) by musician Luu Huu Phuc, performed by the Nam Viet Group

The above information provides a glimpse into the significance of the August Revolution, and we hope it has enriched your understanding of this pivotal event in Vietnam’s history.

Frequently asked questions

The August Revolution, which took place in August 1945, was a pivotal event in Vietnamese history. It marked the end of the French colonial rule and the beginning of Vietnam’s independence and sovereignty. During this revolution, the Vietnamese people, led by Ho Chi Minh and the Viet Minh, rose up against the Japanese and French oppressors, seizing power and establishing the Democratic Republic of Vietnam on September 2, 1945.

The August Revolution was a swift and decisive campaign. The Viet Minh, with the support of the people, launched a general uprising on August 14, 1945, and within a matter of weeks, they had successfully overthrown the Japanese and French rulers. The revolution culminated in Ho Chi Minh reading the Declaration of Independence at Ba Dinh Square on September 2, 1945, officially proclaiming Vietnam’s independence and the birth of the Democratic Republic of Vietnam.

The August Revolution laid the foundation for Vietnam’s modern statehood and national identity. It inspired a sense of unity and nationalism among the Vietnamese people, and the success of the revolution demonstrated their determination and strength. The establishment of the Democratic Republic of Vietnam also set the stage for subsequent struggles for national liberation and unification, ultimately leading to the Vietnam War.

Despite the success of the revolution, Vietnam faced significant challenges in the post-World War II era. The country had to deal with economic devastation, political instability, and the ongoing presence of foreign powers, particularly the returning French colonialists. These challenges led to further conflicts and ultimately shaped Vietnam’s path towards the Vietnam War.

The August Revolution is a source of immense pride for the Vietnamese as it represents their unity, strength, and determination to fight for independence and self-rule. The revolution’s success, led by Ho Chi Minh and the Viet Minh, demonstrated the power of the people and inspired a sense of national identity and pride that continues to resonate in Vietnam today.