The compensation system for military officers and soldiers wounded or falling in battle during the reign of King Tự Đức (1847-1883)

Abstract

The reign of King Tự Đúc (1847-1883) coincided with one of the most tumultuous periods in the nation's history. Not only did King Tự Đức have to suppress internal rebellions, but he also had to orchestrate a resistance against French colonial invasion. In this context, the strength of the military was of paramount importance for the national stability and independence. The establishment and maintenance of a robust army, along with the promulgation and enforcement of post-war policies, including various welfare ones for military officers and soldiers wounded or falling in battle, directly impacted these military officers and soldiers’ material and spiritual lives. The compensation system for military officers and soldiers wounded and falling in battle during the reign of King Tự Đúc was implemented in the two distinct scenarios: before and during wartime. To boost the morale of the soldiers wounded or killed in battles, significant compensation adjustments were made, particularly after 1858, when the resistance against the French colonialists ignited. It was not just an expansion in the beneficiaries of the compensation, but also an increase in the amount provided compared to the previous period. In addition to the soldiers directly involved in combat, their family members (parents, spouses, and children) were also granted monetary support, especially military officers with great contributions in the resistance against the French.