ULUS-İNŞASI İŞGAL KARŞITI HAREKETLER VİETNAM ÖRNEĞİ

Karabulut A.

IV. Uluslararası Sosyal ve Beşeri Bilimler Sempozyumu, Tirane, Arnavutluk, 17 - 19 Temmuz 2026, ss.1-10, (Özet Bildiri)

  • Yayın Türü: Bildiri / Özet Bildiri
  • Basıldığı Şehir: Tirane
  • Basıldığı Ülke: Arnavutluk
  • Sayfa Sayıları: ss.1-10
  • Yozgat Bozok Üniversitesi Adresli: Evet

Özet

The primary objective of this study is to analyze the extent to which the theoretical approaches of Benedict Anderson and Eric Hobsbawm regarding the concepts of nation and nation-building align with Vietnam’s historical and contemporary experience. In this context, the study aims to demonstrate that nation-building is not merely a theoretical construct but a dynamic and multifaceted process shaped by colonialism, war, ideology, and socio-political transformation. Furthermore, by focusing on the Vietnamese case, the study seeks to evaluate how Western-centric theories of nationalism manifest in non-Western contexts.

The research adopts a qualitative approach, combining theoretical analysis with empirical data. In the first stage, key concepts such as nation, nationalism, nation-state, and nation-building are examined within the framework of existing literature. Subsequently, Anderson’s concept of Imagined Communities and Hobsbawm’s thesis of “invented traditions” are analyzed comparatively. The empirical dimension of the study is based on field research conducted in Vietnam in July 2024. This includes semi-structured interviews, archival research, and site visits to historically and culturally significant locations. By integrating theoretical insights with field-based observations, the study provides a grounded and context-sensitive analysis.

The findings indicate that Vietnam’s nation-building process largely corresponds with the theoretical frameworks proposed by both Anderson and Hobsbawm. In line with Anderson’s argument, language standardization, education policies, and the use of media have played a crucial role in fostering national consciousness in Vietnam. Similarly, as emphasized by Hobsbawm, state-led construction of symbols, myths, and historical narratives has been instrumental in consolidating national identity, particularly in the post-independence period.

However, the Vietnamese case also reveals that nation-building extends beyond institutional and ideological processes, encompassing the profound impact of colonialism and war. The oppressive and violent practices of French colonial rule generated deep societal trauma, which in turn contributed to the formation of a strong collective memory and resistance identity. Key figures such as Phan Dinh Phung and Phan Boi Chau exemplify the role of leadership in mobilizing anti-colonial resistance and articulating national consciousness.

Moreover, despite its ethnic and cultural diversity, Vietnam has successfully constructed a cohesive national identity. This suggests that inclusive state policies, shared historical narratives, and collective experiences of struggle can effectively integrate diverse groups into a unified national framework. Overall, the study concludes that the interaction between external pressures and internal dynamics has been a decisive factor in shaping Vietnam’s resilient and enduring national identity