Haiphong (Vietnamese: Hải Phòng;
Hán Tá»±: ) is the third most populous city in Vietnam.
Geography
Haiphong is located in the delta of the Red River. It is approximately 100
kilometres from Hanoi, the Vietnamese capital, and serves as the primary seaport
for the northern region of the country.
History
Haiphong has existed as a significant port city for at least several
centuries, and was one of Vietnam's principal trading centres. When Vietnam was
invaded by the French, the city became France's main naval base in Indochina.
After the World War II, when Vietnam attempted to regain its
independence,Haiphong was the site of the first military action undertaken by
the French, being shelled by the French heavy cruiser Suffren which resulted in
more than two thousand casualties. Later, in the Vietnam War, the city was
subjected to heavy bombing by USAF B-52's and strike aircraft due to its status
as North Vietnam's only major port. After the war, the city was built up as a
significant industrial centre. |
