On October 10, 1954, Hanoi was liberated. The streets were filled with the vibrant colours of red and yellow flags, and every street corner, every house, and every citizen rejoiced with excitement. Particularly for the young people who witnessed the oppression and fierce struggles under French colonial rule, there was now a sincere hope for a new future, a promising new era.
Although 70 years have passed, the memories of that heroic moment remain vivid for the people. Cao Thi Hanh (87 years old, Hoan Kiem District) recalled: "From the evening of October 9, the capital's citizens were bustling with joy in preparation for this monumental event. The next day, at the intersection of Hoan Kiem Lake with Hang Ngang and Hang Dao Streets, the atmosphere was lively and bustling. The cheers from the people welcoming the soldiers, with flags and flowers waving beautifully, were unforgettable. I feel lucky to have experienced my youth in that atmosphere. One has to witness it to understand how happy it was”.
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Hanh, now 87, vividly remembers the emotions of the Liberation Day in 1954. |
Sharing the same sentiments, Nguyen Tien Dat (90 years old, Hai Ba Trung District) reflected on his experience as a young soldier: “Whenever I see images of the army entering the capital, I remember that day. At that moment, seeing the red and yellow flag flying, my heart felt like it was beating stronger. I thought I needed to do something to stabilise life and help liberate the South. Only then could the Vietnamese people truly be free and happy”.
These memories not only reflect an individual’s joy but also symbolise the hope of an entire generation. In the final days of the war against French colonialism, Hanoi people yearned for freedom and independence more than ever.
Nguyen Van Tac (86 years old, Hang Bong) also affirmed: “When Hanoi was liberated, I realised the value of national independence. October 10, 1954, is a symbol of the strength of unity and a testament to the indomitable spirit of the Vietnamese people in the face of every hardship. That is why when remembering the Capital’s Liberation Day, I feel proud and grateful to those who sacrificed and to everyone who has contributed to the development of Hanoi and our country”.
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Hanoi is vibrant with national flags and flowers on the 70th anniversary of the Capital’s Liberation Day.Bottom of Form |
In the days following the liberation, the citizens’ lives began to change. Hanh shared: "We all participated in rebuilding the city, from farming to repairing houses and streets. We learned to live in solidarity, share, and support each other in all circumstances. Many years later, when Vietnam gained full independence, daily life became more vibrant with cultural and sports activities and local movements. The atmosphere in the country after liberation was very joyful; I still remember that moment vividly”.
Hanh further shared her memories from many years after the country achieved complete independence: "I remember the evenings walking around Hoan Kiem Lake, enjoying hot ‘pho’ (noodle soup), banh khuc (a traditional cake), and Hang Khay ‘bun dau’ (noodle with fried tofu). Those memories always remind me of the unique cultural identity of Hanoi”.
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Dat (far left) and Tac (second from the right) reminisce. |
After 70 years, Hanoi has transformed significantly. Although young people of today’s generation did not experience the war, they can still feel the vibrant life of Hanoi through every relic site and stories about its history.
Sharing her thoughts and feelings about the capital city’s historical event in the Autumn of 1954, Nguyen Anh Thu (18 years old, born and raised in Hanoi) said: "Most of my perspective comes from the stories of my grandparents, parents, and historical materials taught by my teachers. I feel proud to hear about the Capital’s liberation in 1954. It was a monumental historical milestone, not only for Hanoi but also for the entire nation. Although I did not directly experience that period, through the stories, images, and historical documents, I can imagine the heroic atmosphere”.
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Nguyen Anh Thu from Hanoi |
Similarly, Nguyen Lan Anh (20 years old, a member of the Youth Union at Foreign Trade University) expressed her special feelings: "Although I just moved to Hanoi for my studies, I have always had a special affection for this bustling city. I feel incredibly grateful to the generations of our ancestors who fought for national independence so that we can enjoy a beautiful Hanoi today”.
