By Bảo Ngọc
Examine the intense geopolitical crisis of 981 as the young state of Đại Cồ Việt faced an invasion by the Song Dynasty. Ngọc breaks down the internal power vacuum caused by the assassination of Đinh Tiên Hoàng, leading to the rise of Lê Hoàn with the support of Dương Vân Nga. You will analyze the sophisticated defense network deployed across the Bạch Đằng and Lục Đầu rivers, studying specific tactical choices like the construction of the Bình Lỗ defense line, the use of sub-surface stakes, ambush tactics, and a coordinated feigned retreat (kế trá hàng) that killed commander Hầu Nhân Bảo and routed the invading forces.
Part of Vietnamese History: From Origins to the Modern Era