In his opening speech, NLV Director Nguyen Xuan Dung described the month-long exhibition as a bridge between the past and the present, designed to keep the history alive and inspire future generations. The displays guide visitors on a wild ride, from the historic autumn of 1945 to Viet Nam’s present-day achievements.
The exhibits are divided into four thematic sections, each a chapter in Viet Nam’s saga. The first, “The August Revolution 1945 – The first great victory of Viet Nam in the 20th century”, showcases materials detailing the historical context, progression, and factors behind the success of the August General Uprising, a landmark event marking the dawn of Viet Nam’s independence and freedom.
The second, “National Day 2/9/1945 – A glorious milestone of Viet Nam in the Ho Chi Minh era”, brings the heat with documents capturing the electric vibe at Ba Dinh Square on September 2, 1945, when President Ho Chi Minh read the Declaration of Independence, founding the Democratic Republic of Viet Nam, now the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam.
The third section, “Historical value and contemporary significance of August Revolution and National Day”, breaks down how these twin milestones have shaped Viet Nam’s national construction, defence, and development.
The final theme, “Viet Nam – 80 years of steady progress”, shifts to the present, spotlighting strides in politics, economy, culture, society, national defence, security and diplomacy over the past eight decades, proving Viet Nam is a major player on the world stage.
According to the organisers, the exhibition aims to educate the tradition of patriotism, self-reliance, self-improvement, and the desire for peace; promote the spirit of great solidarity in preserving and upholding revolutionary achievements; and encourage people to join hands and unite to build, protect and develop the country.