Gia Long captures Hanoi, completing the unification of Vietnam (1802)

Gia Long, born Nguyễn Phúc Ánh, founded the Nguyễn dynasty and unified Vietnam. His northward campaign culminated in the capture of Hanoi on 22 July 1802, completing territorial unification. The capital was subsequently moved to Huế, marking a shift in administrative focus from the northern city.

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Background and detail

Background. Nguyễn Phúc Ánh, later known as Gia Long, was the founding emperor of the Nguyễn dynasty. From 1789, he began a northward march to defeat the Tây Sơn, reaching the Qing border by 1802. His military strength grew significantly, supporting a large army and navy by 1800, which enabled the final campaigns against the Tây Sơn in the north.

Military Campaign. By 1801, Nguyễn forces had regained key cities lost earlier. Naval operations in the Thi Nai area were led by Vietnamese generals, with European advisors supporting supply lines. The campaign culminated in the rapid overrun of the north, with Hanoi captured on 22 July 1802, completing the unification of Vietnam under Gia Long's rule.

Administrative Shift. Following the unification, Gia Long moved the national capital to Huế in 1802. This decision shifted the political center away from Hanoi, which had served as the capital of Đại Việt for centuries. The city was later renamed Hanoi in 1831, reflecting its evolving status within the new dynasty's administrative structure.

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