Saigoneer
Trigger
19/12 Street was once a mass burial ground for those who died in the National Resistance against France in 1946. The event shaped the history of the city and the relationship that thrived for 71 years between locals, the street and chợ Âm phủ
(Hell Market).
An embattled history
It was 1946, one year after the end of the Second World War. Japan had lost in the Pacific, leaving behind Indochina and its desire for independence. But as soon as feeble autonomy was granted, the French began to re-enter their prized possession in the Far East. A war was inevitable, and both sides knew it. Several treaties and ultimatums were given to resolve tensions between the Communist Party of Vietnam and France, which proved ineffectual. By December 19, Hồ Chí Minh, the President of North Vietnam, finally initiated the conflict and declared a National Resistance against the French regime throughout Hanoi.