Under Ho Chi Minh's leadership, the Việt Minh defeated the French Union in 1954, resulting in the division of Vietnam, with the Việt Minh in control of North Vietnam, and anti-communists in control of South Vietnam. He was a key figure in the People's Army of Vietnam during the Vietnam War, which lasted from 1955 to 1975. He served as prime minister of the Democratic Republic of Vietnam from 1945 to 1955 and as president from 1945 until his death, in 1969. North Vietnam was ultimately victorious against South Vietnam and its allies including United States. Vietnam was officially unified in 1976. Saigon, the former capital of South Vietnam, was renamed Ho Chi Minh City in his honor.

Hồ Chí Minh is considered one of the most influential leaders in the world. His thought and revolution inspired many leaders and people on a global scale in Asia, Africa and Latin America during the decolonization movement which occurred after World War II. One of Hồ Chí Minh's works, The Black Race, highlights his views on the oppression of peoples from colonialism and imperialism in 20 written articles.

Object Source: Black and white photo (circa 1946) in public domain from Wikimedia Commons