Treaty of Huế (1884)

The Treaty of Huế (1884), also known as the Patenôtre Treaty, was a treaty signed on June 6, 1884, between France and the Nguyễn dynasty of Vietnam. It effectively established a French protectorate over Annam and Tonkin, the central and northern regions of Vietnam, respectively. This treaty solidified French control over Vietnam as part of French Indochina.

Following the Franco-Vietnamese War (1883-1885), the treaty replaced the earlier Harmand Treaty of 1883, deemed too harsh and destabilizing. While the Harmand Treaty placed both Annam and Tonkin under French protectorate, the 1884 treaty aimed for a more "moderate" approach, although in practice, French control remained substantial. The treaty stipulated that Vietnam's foreign relations would be controlled by France and that French residents would be stationed in Annam to oversee the administration. The Nguyễn emperor retained a symbolic role, but real power rested with the French. The treaty further formalized the division of Vietnam into three entities: Cochinchina (a French colony), Annam (a protectorate), and Tonkin (a protectorate).

The Treaty of Huế (1884) marked a significant turning point in Vietnamese history, ushering in a period of French colonial rule that lasted until the mid-20th century. It led to widespread anti-colonial resistance movements in Vietnam and significantly shaped the country's political and social landscape. The treaty's provisions regarding French control over Vietnamese foreign policy and internal administration were particularly resented and contributed to the rise of Vietnamese nationalism.