The process of administrative units establishment and territorial organization in Hà Tiên under the reigns of emperors Gia Long and Minh Mạng (1802-1841)

Abstract

This article examines the process of establishing and organizing territorial-administrative management in Hà Tiên under the reigns of Emperor Gia Long and Emperor Minh Mạng from a historical and geopolitical perspective. Situated at a strategic position between the mainland and the archipelago, bordering Champa (Cambodia) and Siam (Thailand), Hà Tiên served as a crucial border area in the Nguyễn dynasty’s defense strategy and control over the southwestern frontier. Through analyzing administrative reforms, territorial division, and population management and organization, this study reveals how the Nguyễn court gradually integrated Hà Tiên - once a semi-autonomous territory under the Mạc family - into the centralized state model. Notably, the implementation of geographical surveys, maritime and island control, and the establishment of administrative units on the islands reflect a modern territorial mindset and the dynasty’s capacity to govern border spaces amid the regional power competition between Vietnam, Siam, and Champa. This research contributes to clarifying Hà Tiên’s role as a distinctive administrative-military unit that combined border defense, economic-commercial development, and territorial sovereignty assertion. Accordingly, the article offers an approach to better understanding the Nguyễn state’s governance mindset and border management policies - a vital foundation for recognizing the historical control and sovereignty establishment of Vietnam’s present-day border and maritime zones.