Has Saigon Ever Been Part of Cambodia?

Often, the belief persists that Saigon once belonged historically to Cambodia. However, a careful examination of history reveals that this notion stems more from cultural narratives than factual records. This article delves into the historical context to provide a clearer understanding.

Historical Background: From Prey Nork to Saigon

Prey Nork, the name that was given to today's Saigon, originally formed part of the Khmer Empire. The city was not only a part of the empire, but its inhabitants, the Cham, were also driven out by the Khmer Empire in 1145. This historical fact is well-documented in Justin Corfield's Historical Dictionary of Ho Chi Minh City.

A Cambodian Perspective

For many Khmer Krom and some Cambodian communities, it is a common belief that Saigon was originally a part of Cambodia. This view has been propagated through cultural transmission, especially by xenophobic Cambodian politicians. However, upon closer examination of historical sources, it becomes clear that this belief is a misinterpretation of history.

Expansion of the Khmer Empire

The Khmer Empire, which reigned over vast territories in Southeast Asia, exerted control over Prey Nork. The Chams, the original inhabitants, were driven out by the Khmer Empire in 1145. The land then became a disputed territory until the 17th century when the Vietnamese entered the scene.

The Vietnam Connection

In the late 17th century, the Vietnamese established Saigon, officially transforming a fishing village into a real city. This expansion was part of a broader southward territorial and tributary system imposed by the Vietnamese, under the Later Lê Dynasty (1428-1789), which included Laos and the Chams.

The Later Lê Dynasty and Vietnamese Expansion

During the Later Lê Dynasty, the rulers of Vietnam attempted to further expand their territory. The Trng Lords in the north claimed the title of "Vng," acting on behalf of the Lê Emperors and issuing orders to vassal states. The Laotian principalities and the Ngy Lords in the south, who also claimed the title of "Vng," were under the influence of the Vietnamese.

To consolidate their power and establish a new dynasty, the Ngy Lords were instrumental in exerting control over the vassal principalities of the Cham people and various tribal groups, including those in the Central Highlands of Vietnam. They extended their influence into Cambodia as well.

The Tribute System and Military Assistance

Cambodia began paying tribute to Vietnam in the early 17th century, particularly during the reign of King Chey Chettha II (1618-1628). This was to defend itself against Thai invasions. Historians like Lucia Millar and others note that the Thai invasions had already taken hold of the former capital of Angkor Wat. Thus, Cambodia's ceding of territories, including Prey Nork, to Vietnam was a strategic move to secure military support against these external threats.

The Birth of Ho Chi Minh City

Saigon, now known as Ho Chi Minh City, was officially founded in 1698 when the Vietnamese settled in the territory known as Prey Nork. This founding marked the establishment of a city that would witness significant transformations over the centuries.

Conclusion

While Saigon was historically part of the Khmer Empire, it was eventually ceded to Vietnam due to geopolitical and military realities. The historical narrative is complex and often influenced by cultural and political factors. Understanding the historical context clarifies the long-standing debates about the territorial claims of Cambodia and Vietnam.

For a deeper dive into this topic, we recommend the works of historian Lucia Millar and Justin Corfield's Historical Dictionary of Ho Chi Minh City.

References

Corfield, J. (2018). Historical Dictionary of Ho Chi Minh City. Rowman Littlefield Publishers.

Millar, L. (2012). Vietnam: A Global Studies Handbook. ABC-CLIO.

Thng Long - ng Kinh Hanoi, historical sources on the Trng and Ngy Lords, and the tribute system during the Later Lê Dynasty.