Assess the role of Ho Chi Minh on the growth of Vietnamese nationalism.

Ho Chi Minh is undoubtly one of the most enigmatic and controversial figures in the history of the twentieth century. After thousands of years of social and political oppression, Ho provided a flicker of hope for the Vietnamese people and created a trigger for them to fight for freedom, justice and independence. Ho Chi Minh's leadership qualities and his ability to apply communist ideologies onto his country that was desperate for change, ultimately strengthened Vietnamese nationalism and won him nationwide support. Ho triumphantly took advantage of the chaos during WWII, the discontent under French oppression, the increase in nationalism after WWI, the independence of other foreign countries and the Declaration of Independence to boost Vietnamese nationalism, remind the people of their plight and lead them on the path to freedom, equality and emancipation. "Independence must be grasped at all costs, even if you must set the mountains afire." (Ho Chi Minh, 1944) Ho's perseverance, determination and allegiance to Vietnam gave his people the strength and pride to fight, die, and overcome the impossible.

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Hanoi, Vietnam

By ferry across Saigon River

Ho Chi Minh City's Downtown at night

Ho Chi Minh developed and guided the growing nationalism in Vietnam and sowed the seeds that brought about the independence of Vietnam and the years of bloodshed to an end. Ho's patriotic pride and ability to empathize with the people heightened Vietnamese nationalism and millions of Vietnamese fought and died to safeguard their right to liberty and independence.

Ho Chi Minh had all the qualities necessary in a leader, and his austerity, perseverance, iron determination and whole-hearted devotion to the cause of the Revolution were an inspiration to all who served under him and to the nation as a whole. By his moral standing alone Ho acquired the respect and confidence of the Vietnamese nation. His reputation for honesty and sincerity contributed greatly to...