Trung Sisters

5 Pages 1355 Words

During the 1,000 years under Chinese control, the Vietnamese people engaged in a continual struggle against their ruler. In 3 BC, a large amount of Chinese mandarins invaded Nam Viet, taking over land and farms previously owned by Vietnamese people. The Chinese also made demands to the Viet people in the form of high tributary payments. They monopolized the production of salt and iron for their personal gains. They also forced assimilation of its culture throughout the population.
Various members of the Vietnamese aristocracy often led the struggles. The skirmishes between the Chinese authority and Vietnamese people occurred mainly in the outer Tonking provinces. Two women, Trung Trac and Trung Nhi, led one of these uprisings in 39 AD.
In 36 AD, Su Ting (To Dinh) replaced Tich Quang, as governor of Giao Chi was significantly dishonest and greedy. In "Dong Quan Han Ky", the author wrote: "His eyes widened at the sight of money." These Hans demanded bribes, levied unreasonable taxation on salt and handicraft products. They also taxed the local people for fishing from the rivers. They oppressed the Vietnamese people, their children and families. Both the peasant and Au Lac gentry’s classes deeply resented the colonialist government.
King Hung Vuong came from Me-linh (present time, Ha Tay Vinh Phu provinces). Although he worked for the Hans, he continued to maintain his personal affection for his country people. It was due to his patriotism that he gained the love and trust of the common people. His wife, Man Thien was equally committed to the same affection and purpose towards the people. They had two daughters, Trung Trac and Trung Nhi. These young women grew up witnessing the cruel Chinese treatment of the Vietnamese people. Their compassion for the people fueled their deep-seated hatred of the Chinese. They spent their time studying the art of warfare, weaponry and fighting skills.
Chu Dien, located next to the town of Me-linh...