Formation of a New Political System in Dang Ngoai (Northern Vietnam) at the End of the 16th–18th Centuries (Stating the Problem)

Abstract

The article examines a specific military and political situation in Daiviet in the 16th century. This situation ultimately led to the separation of powers in Dangngoai (North Vietnam) into secular military and civil power and religiously sacred one in the 17–18th centuries. This was recorded at the end of the 16th century when along with the traditional institutions of the state administration (Six Ministries, Censorate and other regular departments) “the ruler’s headquarters” (phu lieu) were created and began to operate. This work examines the structure of the new authorities and the correlation of new and traditional power institutions. In addition, it is proved that virtually all military and secular and administrative activities in Dangngoai were concentrated in the hands of the military ruler (chua). The military ruler efficiently ran the state through his government (phu lieu) and offices-phien. Regarding the traditional Ministries, Censorate and departments, which were officially subordinated to the emperor (vua, hoangde), the military ruler actually removed them from activities and kept an unfaltering watch on them.