The exhibition highlighted the capital’s daily dynamism and innovation, while also preserving its traditional character through each documentary photograph on display.
The online exhibition Dear Citizens of the Capital! chronicles the struggle of Hanoi’s people and army against French colonialism from the late 19th century to 1954. Organized by the Hoan Kiem District People’s Committee, the exhibition showcases archival documents, including revolutionary leaflets previously collected by the French regime’s police in Hanoi. These materials are presented in 3D space, allowing visitors to explore significant locations such as the Hanoi Citadel, Dong Xuan Market, the Old Quarter, Hanoi Opera Square, and the Tonkin Palace.
The exhibition is divided into three thematic areas, including “Hanoi in Flames, Smoke and Fire Filling the Sky,” which focuses on the early stages of French colonial invasion; “Hanoi Stands Up,” highlighting revolutionary struggles from 1930 to 1954; and “Hanoi on Victory Day,” showcasing the moment of liberation on October 10, 1954, marked by the red flag with a yellow star flying over Hanoi, signalling the end of the nine-year resistance.
Pham Tuan Long, Chairman of the Hoan Kiem District People’s Committee, said that the exhibition aims to commemorate the indomitable spirit of Hanoi’s resistance. It is designed to educate people, particularly the younger generation, about the city’s revolutionary history, raising awareness of the sacrifices made by the people of Hanoi during the struggle against French colonialism, culminating in the victory of the October 1954 Liberation Day.
Dear Citizens of the Capital! takes its name from a rallying cry during the resistance, reflecting the widespread public involvement in uprisings. Notably, the August 1945 General Uprising, which led to the Viet Minh’s takeover of Hanoi, was a key turning point. Following the invasion by French forces in late 1946, Hanoi’s streets became battlefields as the city’s people responded to President Ho Chi Minh’s call for resistance.
After nine years of fierce combat, the liberation of Hanoi in 1954 was celebrated as a victory of immense significance. Through this exhibition, viewers can explore the hardships and sacrifices of the past, celebrating Hanoi as both the capital of Vietnam and a symbol of national pride and cultural heritage. The exhibition serves as a virtual connection to the past, allowing people to experience and learn from this pivotal history.
By Hoang Nam
