Natural disasters and epidemics under the Nguyen dynasty (1802-1840) – A study through the Nguyen dynasty’s imperial archives

Abstract

After being established in 1802, the Nguyen Dynasty faced challenges from
the reconstruction and re-establishment of the country after a long period of war. During this
time, various natural disasters such as storms, floods, dyke breaches, and epidemics occurred
continuously, leading to famine spreading from the Northern Vietnam to the Central Vietnam.
Based on the Nguyen Dynasty’s imperial archives, the article analyzes and evaluates floods,
dyke breaches, and epidemics under the Nguyen Dynasty (1802-1840). Besides, the paper
examines policies of the Nguyen Dynasty on responding to natural disasters and epidemics;
thereby suggesting practical applications to respond to those problems at present.