The Relationship Between the French Colonial Administration and the Local Chieftain system (Quan Lang) in Hòa Bình Province

Abstract

This article examines the administrative apparatus of Hòa Bình Province under French colonial rule, with a particular focus on the relationship between the French authorities and the traditional Muong Lang đạo (Quan lang) system before 1945. In addition to the French and Nguyễn dynastic administrative structures found in other northern provinces, Hòa Bình maintained the traditional governance system of the Muong people, headed by the quan lang. Despite limitations within this indigenous administrative structure, the French accepted and exploited the Lang đạo system to ensure social stability without investing significant colonial resources.