Saigon

Saigon or officially known as Ho Chi Minh City is the largest city in Vietnam by population. It was the capital of the French colonial Cochinchina and later of the independent republic of South Vietnam from 1955–75. On 2 July 1976, Saigon merged with the surrounding Gia Định Province and was officially renamed Ho Chi Minh City after revolutionary leader Hồ Chí Minh.

History

Saigon was a major port city and a significant base for French Missionaries in the 17th century. It was captured by the French in 1859 and was named the capital of Cochinchina, a region covering the southern part of present-day Vietnam. During the Vietnam War, Saigon was the capital of South Vietnam and was the headquarters of U.S. military operations. Parts of downtown Saigon were turned into a bustling U.S. military base.

Geography

Located in the southeastern region of Vietnam, Saigon is bordered by the South China Sea to the south, the provinces of Bình Dương and Đồng Nai to the north, Bà Rịa–Vũng Tàu Province to the east and Tây Ninh Province and Long An Province to the west.

Economy

Saigon is the financial hub of Vietnam and is responsible for a large proportion of the country's economy. The city is home to many national and international banks and financial services companies. A large number of international corporations have established their Asian headquarters in Saigon.

Culture

Saigon is a cultural melting pot with influences from the French colonial period and the Chinese community. The city is known for its historic landmarks which include the Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon, Saigon Opera House, and Independence Palace. The city's cultural scene includes a variety of music, arts, and culinary traditions.

Transportation

Saigon is a major transport hub in Vietnam, with a comprehensive network of roads, railways, and airports. The Tan Son Nhat International Airport is the busiest airport in Vietnam.

Education

Saigon is the educational center of Vietnam with many universities, colleges, and research institutions. These include the Vietnam National University, Ho Chi Minh City, Ho Chi Minh City University of Technology, and Ho Chi Minh City University of Science.

See also

• History of Vietnam
• Vietnam War
• French colonial empire

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