Vietnam's Youth Innovate Historical Preservation Through Artifacts and Storytelling

As the years of war recede into the past, the importance of disseminating historical values is increasingly emphasized in Vietnam. Today's youth are actively engaging with history through creative and accessible methods, moving beyond traditional textbooks and classroom lessons. Mai Phu Hao, born in 2008 in An Bien commune, An Giang province, has collected and preserved over 700 war artifacts spanning various historical periods. For Hao, items such as helmets, uniforms, and time-worn objects are not mere relics but vessels carrying stories and imprints of bygone eras. Hao's journey into artifact collecting began in 2017 when, as a fourth-grader, he became curious about the equipment used by Vietnamese soldiers after hearing war stories. Among his prized possessions is an old newspaper detailing the passing of President Ho Chi Minh, a memento that not only marks a significant moment in national history but also holds personal meaning, as Ho Chi Minh remains a role model for Hao. Acquiring his collection involved extensive research, travel, and connecting with like-minded individuals. Despite challenges such as lost artifacts and unclear origins, Hao's passion for history has fueled his dedication over many years. He has also taught himself to restore damaged items, including helmets and uniforms, some of which have been displayed in local museums and war memorials. Hao views artifact preservation as a way to safeguard the narratives of sacrifice and struggle of previous generations. He hopes that when young people encounter these artifacts, they will see them as a "historical mirror," reminding them that peace was hard-won and fostering a greater appreciation for the past and a stronger sense of responsibility towards the nation. Beyond artifact preservation, many young individuals are choosing to recount historical narratives from their generational perspective. The "Chuyện thời bình" (Stories of Peace) project by a group of students from the Academy of Journalism and Communication exemplifies this approach. Instead of focusing on war memories or familiar historical milestones, the project delves into the lives of soldiers in the post-war era. Their stories about work, family, and continued contributions offer young people a more relatable perspective on history. Van Gia Khanh, the project leader, stated that the group aims to tell more about the people who made history, rather than just events or numbers. They hope that through these everyday slices of life, young people will better understand and cherish the values upheld and passed down by previous generations. The project features three main content streams: "My Peaceful Times," highlighting former soldiers' continued contributions to the nation; "Scars of Time," documenting the experiences of wounded and sick soldiers receiving care; and "Companions," portraying the healthcare workers dedicated to caring for these veterans, thereby continuing the narrative of gratitude in peacetime. Implementing the project presented numerous challenges, including sourcing materials and connecting with individuals across different provinces. The group also had to devise creative ways to make historical stories more engaging for a young audience. Consequently, they opted for digital archives, photobooks, exhibitions, and interactive experiences to bring these stories to life, offering fresh perspectives on the lives of post-war soldiers. Khanh expressed his deep emotion at witnessing the unwavering spirit of the "Uncle Ho's soldiers." He noted that while the ideal during wartime was national defense, it has now evolved into a aspiration for national construction, peace maintenance, and community contribution. The optimism, resilience, and patriotism of the older generation serve as a significant source of inspiration and motivation for the students. Alongside "Chuyện thời bình," other initiatives such as "Gen Z and Vietnamese History," "Star of the Helmet," and "Patriotism in the New Era" demonstrate how young people are conveying history and national spirit through modern formats. These efforts affirm that history continues to be preserved and disseminated today, reflecting the gratitude, national pride, and awareness of the value of peace among the younger generation.