The Geneva Conference of 1954 was pivotal in shaping the future of Vietnam after the French colonial presence and subsequently during the Vietnam War. It resulted in the division of Vietnam at the 17th parallel, with the North becoming the Democratic Republic of Vietnam (North Vietnam) under communist leadership and the South becoming the Republic of Vietnam (South Vietnam), which was supported by the United States and other anti-communist nations.
After the withdrawal of American soldiers in 1973, the situation in Vietnam was pivotal. The Paris Peace Accords led to a temporary cessation of hostilities, but tensions remained high. North Vietnam continued its military campaigns against the South, leading to the Fall of Saigon in April 1975. This event marked the conclusion of the Vietnam War, resulting in the reunification of Vietnam under communist control.
Post-war, Vietnam faced significant challenges, including economic difficulties, rebuilding a war-torn country, and the integration of two very different political and social systems. The country would later implement reforms in the 1980s that transitioned from a centrally-planned economy to a socialist-oriented market economy, ultimately leading to significant economic growth and development.