From the era of independence to the era of the nation's rise

The August Revolution of 1945 was a monumental historic event that ushered in an era of independence and freedom for the Vietnamese nation. Under the leadership of the Party and President Ho Chi Minh, the August Revolution not only marked the end of colonial and feudal domination, but also laid the foundation for Vietnam’s vigorous development in the new era.

The 80th anniversary of this event provides an occasion to reflect on its historic significance, review the achievements gained, and outline the future direction of a nation rising on the international arena.

The August Revolution – A historic milestone of independence

The August Revolution was the crystallization of patriotism, indomitable will, and the unity of the entire Vietnamese nation. Under the yoke of French colonial rule from the mid-19th century, followed by the occupation of Japanese fascists during World War II, the Vietnamese people endured hardship and misery. In particular, the famine of 1945 claimed the lives of more than two million people, further fueling public outrage and determination to overthrow foreign domination.

Under the leadership of the Party, headed by President Ho Chi Minh, the Viet Minh Front ignited a nationwide revolutionary movement. When the opportunity came, the Vietnamese people rose up in unison. From August 19, 1945, the general uprising broke out in Hanoi and quickly spread throughout the localities. Within just a few days, revolutionary power was established nationwide. On September 2, 1945, at Ba Dinh Square, President Ho Chi Minh proclaimed the Declaration of Independence, founding the Democratic Republic of Vietnam and marking the birth of an independent nation in which sovereignty belonged to the people.

Following the success of the August Revolution, President Ho Chi Minh read the Declaration of Independence at Ba Dinh Square on September 2, 1945. Photo: Archive

The August Revolution was not only an armed uprising, but also a symbol of the strength of national unity. It demonstrated that under the sound leadership of the Party, the Vietnamese people could overcome every challenge to win freedom. The event carried significance not only for Vietnam, but also inspired national liberation movements around the world, contributing to the collapse of the old colonial system.

The historical significance of the August Revolution

The August Revolution carried profound significance across political, social, economic, and cultural fields.

Politically, its success affirmed the leadership role of the Party and President Ho Chi Minh. The Party creatively applied Marxism-Leninism, combining political and armed struggle, uniting urban and rural forces, and aligning the proletariat with patriotic forces to lead the people to victory. The Revolution’s triumph laid the foundation for a socialist political system, with the 1946 Constitution emphasizing democracy, equality, and freedom.

Socially, the August Revolution liberated the people from colonial and feudal oppression. Peasants were granted land, workers saw improvements in their labor conditions, and women achieved equal rights. Progressive social policies such as eradicating illiteracy, expanding public education, and developing public healthcare contributed to building a more just society.

Eighty years after the success of the August Revolution, Vietnam has achieved remarkable accomplishments, transforming from a former colony into an independent and developing nation. The revolutionary spirit continues to serve as an inspiration for the Vietnamese people to overcome challenges and strive toward the goal of becoming a strong and prosperous country, constantly nurturing the well-being of its citizens while actively contributing to global peace and prosperity.

Economically, although the country was then in ruins, the revolutionary government implemented measures to restore production, laying the foundation for an independent and self-reliant economy. From this point, several new economic models were successfully applied in Vietnam’s specific conditions, gradually improving people's lives.

Culturally, the August Revolution aroused national identity and promoted a revolutionary culture with many timeless artistic works. Marxist culture, with its three pillars of nationalism, science, and the masses, both strengthened the nation’s cultural identity and continuously absorbed the cultural quintessence of humanity.

The greatest lesson from the August Revolution lies in the power of national unity and the Party’s clear-sighted leadership. We believe that in every circumstance, the spirit of self-reliance, resilience, solidarity, and faith in justice will lead to victory.

From gaining independence to rising in a new era

Eighty years on, the spirit of the August Revolution remains a guiding flame for Vietnam’s development. From a poor and backward country, Vietnam has risen to become one of the most dynamic economies in the region. The achievements of the Doi Moi (Renewal) process since 1986 have helped the nation overcome economic crises, record impressive GDP growth rates, and emerge as an active member of international organizations such as ASEAN, the WTO, and the United Nations, while also joining free trade agreements like the CPTPP and EVFTA. The people’s lives have improved remarkably, with poverty rates falling sharply and significant progress made in education and healthcare.

In the autumn of August 2025, the entire country is focusing on implementing tasks for the two-tier local government system. In the photo: Officials at the Public Administrative Service Center of Trang Dai Ward receive land-related documents from people.  Photo: CONG NGHIA

Politically, Vietnam has maintained stability and safeguarded its independence and sovereignty amid a world of constant turbulence. The country’s standing on the international stage has been increasingly strengthened. However, Vietnam also faces major challenges in the new era, such as climate change, the gap between the rich and the poor, and global economic competition. To continue rising, Vietnam must promote the spirit of the August Revolution: maintaining self-reliance and resilience, fostering unity, combining internal strength with international integration, and sustaining political determination for the well-being of the people.

The 80th anniversary of the August Revolution is an occasion for today’s generation to pay tribute to those who sacrificed for independence and freedom. It is also a time to intensify propaganda and historical education activities so that young generation better understand the value of this landmark event. At the same time, it is a moment for Vietnam to define greater goals for the future: building a prosperous, democratic, just, and civilized nation.

The spirit of the August Revolution remains intact, reminding us of the power of solidarity, resilience, and faith in the future. In a rapidly changing world, Vietnam must continue to promote its revolutionary tradition, constantly innovate, and integrate internationally to move further on its development journey. From the era of winning independence, Vietnam has entered an era of rising forward, affirming its position as a resilient, dynamic, and aspirational nation.

By: Nguyen Minh Hai
Translated by: Dang Huyen - Thu Ha