Trần Thừa

Trần Thừa (陳承)

Trần Thừa (1184-1234) was a powerful official during the late Lý Dynasty and the father of Emperor Trần Thái Tông, the first emperor of the Trần Dynasty of Vietnam. While not an emperor himself, Trần Thừa played a crucial role in orchestrating the transition of power from the Lý to the Trần.

He held a prominent position in the Lý court and gradually accumulated significant influence. His skillful maneuvering and political acumen allowed the Trần family to supplant the declining Lý Dynasty. He strategically positioned his family members in key positions, paving the way for his son, Trần Thái Tông, to ascend the throne in 1225.

While never formally holding the title of emperor, Trần Thừa is often considered the founder of the Trần Dynasty due to his instrumental role in its establishment. He is remembered as a shrewd and capable strategist who laid the foundation for one of Vietnam's most successful and longest-reigning dynasties. He died several years after the establishment of the Trần dynasty, having secured its early stability.