The Social Structure of Vietnam and Its Relations with China During the Late Tang and Five Dynasties Periods

This study analyzes the changes in Vietnam’s political power structure and its relations with China from the late Tang(唐) period to the Five Dynasties(五代) era. After the establishment of the Annan Protectorate(安南都護府) in 679, Vietnam came under Chinese rule. However, as the central government’s control weakened, local indigenous forces began to rise. Following the decline of the Tang dynasty, the Khúc(曲) family emerged as a dominant power, establishing an autonomous administrative system. However, in 930, the Southern Han(南漢) invaded, leading to the collapse of the Khúc regime. Subsequently, Dương Đình Nghệ(楊廷藝) formed an independent force, and in 938, Ngô Quyền(吳權) decisively defeated the Southern Han in the Battle of Bạch Đằng River(白藤江), securing Vietnam’s independence. Ngô Quyền sought to centralize governance while maintaining diplomatic relations with China to solidify Vietnam’s independent status. This study highlights that Vietnam’s independence was not merely the result of military conflict but rather a gradual process shaped by political and diplomatic strategies within the broader international context. Vietnamese leaders leveraged the tributary system with China to secure autonomy while engaging in diplomacy with neighboring states to maintain their independence. Additionally, this research examines how internal political struggles and diplomatic strategies influenced Vietnam’s path to independence. In conclusion, the late Tang and Five Dynasties periods marked a turning point in Vietnam’s political identity, enabling it to break away from the Sino-centric world order. Subsequently, Vietnam sought new diplomatic strategies in its relations with the Song(宋) dynasty. These historical experiences provide valuable insights into Vietnam’s foreign relations and political autonomy within the East Asian international order.