Written by Jack Harris
Directed by Doug Reilly
Produced by Tom D'Agostino

Vietnam has maintained a strong cultural and national identity that has enabled the country to preserve its culture and resist invaders and colonizers throughout its history. However, the Vietnamese have integrated characteristics of these external powers, most notably the Chinese but also the French and more recently the U.S., into their own traditions, creating a fascinating blend of cultures. In this segment, Professor Jack Harris discusses some of the important characteristics of Vietnam’s vibrant folk culture, noting that traditional customs and patterns will be under great pressure to change as the process of modernization in Vietnam continues to intensify.