Land system and agricultural economy during the Tran dynasty: New approaches

Abstract

In Vietnamese history, the Tran dynasty was peculiar in that its military triumphs and literati rule formed a spirit that could hardly be found in other monarchical ages. There is thoughtful research being conducted on military arts during the wars against the Mongol-Yuan invasions as well as a considerable number of studies on the Tran culture and civilisation. However, the view from economic and social studies is likely thin. The land system and agricultural economy, among key foundations of all medieval institutions including the Tran dynasty, remain unclear with several un-answered questions. Through new approaches, this paper attempts to demonstrate a new scientific understanding and fill the knowledge gap. In summary, historical studies often mention two prom-inent socio-economic features of the Tran, including dien trang, thai ap ownership, and slavery system. However, further studies show that the “serf” was not as heavily exploited as in medieval Europe. With pro-agricultural and lowering taxation policies based on the idea of “relaxed ruler-ship as the root”, the Tran relied on village units as the foundation for the harmonious relationship between the state and its people and the model of a welfare centralised state.