The first female major general of the Vietnam People's Army, Nguyễn Thị Định, emerged from a peasant background in Lương Hòa to become a central figure in Vietnamese politics and the Vietnam War. Her path included leadership in the National Liberation Front of South Vietnam, directing combat operations, and serving as a high-ranking official in the reunited nation.
Early Insurgency and Colonial Resistance
Born on 15 March 1920, Định grew up during a period of intense colonial tension. Her involvement in anti-colonial activities began early, leading to her arrest and incarceration by French authorities. During this period of imprisonment, she suffered the loss of her first husband. Following her release, she participated in the 1945 insurrection in Bến Tre, establishing her role as a militant operative within the Viet Minh.
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During the Vietnam War, she served as a deputy commander for the National Liberation Front. In 1965, she assumed the role of chairwoman for the South Vietnam Women's Liberation Association, helping integrate female participation into the broader national revolutionary movement.
Political Career and Later Years
Following the reunification of Vietnam, she transitioned into formal political roles within the state. She served as a member of the National Assembly of Vietnam and held a presidential position. Her influence extended to the Central Committee of the Vietnamese Communist Party. Her dedication to international and national causes earned her the Order of Friendship of Peoples in 1973, the Lenin Peace Prize, and the Great National Unity Order. In 1995, she received the posthumous title Hero of the People's Armed Forces.
Literary and Cultural Legacy
Beyond her political and military service, she documented her experiences through written works. Cornell University Press published her memoirs in 1976. She also provided a contribution titled 'The braided army' to the 1984 anthology titled Sisterhood Is Global: The International Women's Movement Anthology. Additionally, her historical accounts were captured on record through an interview conducted by Stanley Karnow for the documentary series Vietnam: A Television History.
Fast facts
- Born: 15 March 1920, Lương Hòa, Vĩnh Long
- Died: 26 August 1992, Bến Tre
- Military Rank: Major General
- Key Organization: National Liberation Front of South Vietnam
- Awards: Lenin Peace Prize, Order of Friendship of Peoples (1973), Great National Unity Order
- Notable Role: Commander of the Long-Haired Army
Questions readers ask
What military rank did Nguyễn Thị Định achieve?
She was a major general in the Vietnam People's Army.
What was the Long-Haired Army?
It was an all-female force commanded by Định that performed espionage and combat duties during the Vietnam War.
