Top 10 Essays on Preserving National Cultural Identity

Every nation possesses its own unique cultural identity, shaped by its traditions, way of life, customs, language, attire, and even the thought processes that guide daily actions. These elements form the distinct soul and spirit of Vietnam.

Each culture takes pride in its heritage. For example, China boasts its millennia-old culture, Japan is known for its humility and unity in times of hardship, while Vietnam proudly celebrates the valorous history of its ancestors, a legacy few nations can match. Our national spirit is characterized by unity, bravery, and resilience in the face of foreign invasions. As President Ho Chi Minh affirmed: “Our people have an ardent love for the country. It is a precious tradition that has been passed down through the ages. Whenever our homeland is threatened, this spirit ignites a powerful, unstoppable wave, overcoming all danger and hardship, wiping out traitors and invaders.”

To this day, this spirit remains deeply ingrained in the hearts of the Vietnamese. It manifests in our sense of solidarity, empathy, and the principle of mutual support, encapsulated in the saying, “the healthy leaves protect the torn leaves.” However, the winds of modern life are undeniably impacting the preservation of our cultural identity. Today’s youth are more dynamic, more connected, and more exposed to global influences. While this energy is admirable, it also raises concerns. For instance, the increasing trend of imitating foreign fashions, behaviors, and language is evident.

Colored hair, trendy clothing, exaggerated gestures, and a blend of English and Vietnamese in everyday speech—these are signs of a superficial, trend-chasing culture. The simplicity, elegance, and refinement that traditionally defined Vietnamese culture have seemingly been overlooked by many young people. This obsession with modern trends often reflects a disregard for the deeper aspects of our national identity, including values, beliefs, and lifestyles. It is a sad reality that calls for reflection and change.

To ensure that our cultural identity is not lost or diluted, it is essential that each individual recognizes the value of their heritage—something that is deeply woven into the very fabric of the Vietnamese people. Families and communities must also unite to preserve and promote these cultural values, even amidst the blending of foreign influences. However, preserving culture does not mean clinging to outdated practices. It involves selecting, inheriting, and elevating the finest aspects of our traditions. This begins with conscious self-awareness and responsibility for one’s actions and mindset.

With the rapid advancement of science and technology, society is changing at an unprecedented pace. As a result, many cherished cultural values are gradually fading. This alarming trend is particularly concerning for a country with such a rich cultural heritage as Vietnam.

First and foremost, cultural identity must be understood as the sum of enduring values that reflect the appearance, character, spirit, and mindset of a nation. These values are constantly refined, expanded, and passed down through history, becoming a unique and cherished spiritual asset that strengthens community bonds and distinguishes one nation from another. When we speak of 'identity,' we refer to that which is uniquely tied to a particular group of people. Similarly, 'cultural identity' refers to the noble, admirable, and precious values that define a nation.

The cultural identity of the Vietnamese people has been shaped over a long history, intimately tied to the country's struggles for independence and its journey toward building socialism. After thousands of years, the Vietnamese people are still proud of their deeply rooted cultural traditions:

“My dear, my dear
Look far ahead
Into the four thousand years of our Land”

(The Country, Nguyễn Khoa Điềm)

Throughout these “four thousand years,” our ancestors created countless cultural treasures. Many of these are impossible to list exhaustively. These include beautiful traditions such as patriotism, reverence for education, and loyalty:

“Wives remembering their husbands have contributed to the Land with the Vọng Phu Mountains
Lovers have created the Trống Mái Rocks
The hooves of Saint Gióng’s horse left behind numerous ponds
Ninety-nine elephants helped establish the land of the Hung Kings
Silent dragons contributed to the deep blue rivers
Poor students have helped shape the Land with the Bút and Nghiên Mountains
The frogs and chickens of the homeland have contributed to Ha Long Bay’s beauty
People’s names live on in places like Ông Đốc, Ông Trang, Bà Đen, Bà Điểm”

(The Country, Nguyễn Khoa Điềm)

These are not only beautiful traditions but also monuments, scenic landmarks, literary works, and folk songs that embody the essence of our homeland.

However, today, these values are increasingly being lost. As foreign cultures flood into Vietnam, traditional values are being replaced by modern ones. This poses a significant threat to our national culture, as the very fabric of our cultural identity begins to erode and lose its coherence.

Today, the younger generation—who are more open to new ideas—play a crucial role in preserving our cultural identity. They are at the forefront of protecting and maintaining it. To safeguard cultural identity, the first step is for each person to be aware of their role in preserving the cultural values of their local community and nation. The government must also take decisive action to address actions that harm these values. Additionally, efforts should be made to restore, preserve, and protect historical sites, landmarks, and especially intangible cultural heritage.

In conclusion, the responsibility for preserving cultural identity belongs to everyone. From individuals and families to communities and the entire nation, we must unite to protect and cherish the precious cultural treasures of our people.

To elevate Vietnam to the heights mentioned by President Ho Chi Minh: 'to step onto the podium of glory alongside the world's great powers,' it is essential that, alongside economic development, we preserve and protect the nation's cultural identity.

'Cultural identity'—a phrase that may seem abstract—refers to the core material and spiritual values of a people. Culture is expressed in tangible forms such as national cuisine, traditional clothing, historic landmarks, and monuments. It is also manifested in intangible forms: language, traditions (such as patriotism, respect for education, and loyalty), literature, and the customs of daily life. Indeed, after thousands of years of nation-building and defending the country, Vietnam has a rich and distinctive cultural identity.

Cultural identity plays a critical role for any nation. It is, first and foremost, the soul of the nation. A nation that preserves its cultural identity is one that can retain its independence. This is why, during the thousand years of Chinese domination, the rulers sought to assimilate the Vietnamese people to make the country part of their empire. Similarly, the French referred to us as “Annamese” and saw themselves as a 'great mother' civilization, bringing culture to our people. Furthermore, culture brings tremendous benefits, directly impacting the economic development of a country. Tourists are drawn to historical sites and scenic landmarks, while our distinct cuisine, loved internationally, fills us with pride and contributes economically. Ultimately, cultural identity is the unique factor that sets each nation apart from the others.

Given its immense importance, what steps can we take to preserve cultural identity? First and foremost, individuals must be aware of its significance. From the elderly to the young, everyone must recognize the importance of preserving their nation's cultural values, so they do not fade with time. For example, today, many young people are embracing traditional art forms such as ca trù, cải lương, and chèo. In addition, the government, both at the national and local levels, must take action by investing in the restoration of tangible cultural assets and protecting intangible cultural heritage. Sometimes, preserving cultural identity comes from seemingly small actions: maintaining the purity of the Vietnamese language, wearing áo dài during national holidays. While these acts may seem minor, they carry profound meaning.

In conclusion, preserving cultural identity is crucial for every nation. Today's youth, who are open to new ideas, should live with an awareness of the importance of safeguarding the cherished traditions of their homeland.

Cultural identity is the core value of any civilization, embodying the soul, essence, emotions, intellect, and strength of a nation. It serves as the bond that unites communities, fostering togetherness and collective progress. The values embedded in cultural identity are powerful driving forces that ensure the stability and sustainable growth of a nation.

The cultural identity of Vietnam has been forged through its history of nation-building and defense, as well as its journey toward socialism. This identity reflects the enduring cultural values that have been passed down through generations, shaping the nation’s character, soul, and psyche. It is a vital spiritual asset that unites the people, distinguishing the Vietnamese from other nations. However, alongside its positive aspects, there are also challenges, such as the erosion and distortion of these cultural values. The influence of capitalist lifestyles, the decline in traditional customs, and the ideological assault from imperialist forces all pose significant threats. In this context, the youth play a pivotal role as the vanguard in preserving and promoting the nation’s cultural heritage. They are the active force in safeguarding, enriching, and spreading these values, contributing to the protection of the socialist homeland.

To harness the youth’s potential in preserving cultural identity in an era of globalization, we must implement effective strategies. The rich cultural heritage of Vietnam was built through the sacrifices and struggles of countless generations. These values represent the very essence of the nation and will continue to shine brightly, guiding future generations. The cultural treasures of the past will be a lasting legacy, providing the strength and inspiration for Vietnamese youth as they carry forward the thousand-year-old traditions into the future.

In today's world of globalization and integration into the global market, the importance of national cultural identity has become even more pronounced, especially for the younger generation. As the future leaders of the nation, Vietnamese youth are actively promoting their cultural heritage through various initiatives. While foreign influences are ever-present, many young people continue to embrace and celebrate traditional customs, such as folk games and art forms like ca trù and imperial court music. A striking example is Miss H'Hen Niê, who proudly showcased Vietnam's heritage at an international beauty pageant by wearing a national costume inspired by the iconic bánh mì, symbolizing the country's agricultural achievements.

However, alongside this positive trend, there are still many young people who seem detached from their cultural roots. They often neglect the importance of traditional values, both tangible and intangible, and instead idolize foreign cultures to the point of excessive admiration. For instance, many youth freely mix foreign words into their Vietnamese, resulting in unclear expressions that undermine the purity of the language. These behaviors, though seemingly harmless, negatively impact the preservation and promotion of Vietnam's cultural identity.

The youth must become more conscious of the role and significance of cultural identity in order to safeguard these valuable traditions. It is crucial for them to cultivate a lifestyle that aligns with the moral and cultural teachings of their ancestors, and to cherish and promote the unique values that define the nation's heritage. At the same time, they must denounce and actively combat actions that erode these traditions. A strong stance is needed to reject and discourage the spread of unhealthy cultural practices that are gaining traction in society.

To ensure a nation's survival and progress through the ages, it is essential not only to safeguard its territorial integrity but also to preserve its cultural identity. The significance of cultural identity is foundational for the vitality and enduring strength of any nation, highlighting the role of the younger generation—the future stewards of the nation—in this preservation effort.

Cultural identity encompasses the unique characteristics that define a nation and its people. It is shaped and nurtured alongside a nation's history and development, both in the present and throughout time. This identity includes material values and intangible cultural elements like customs, traditions, and practices. For the Vietnamese people, these values endure through time, such as the rice cultivation civilization, the Đông Sơn bronze drums, and a steadfast patriotism that runs like a red thread through our history. Additionally, values like solidarity, mutual aid, and the principles of “drinking water, remembering the source” and “eternal loyalty” are deeply embedded in our cultural fabric.

The importance of cultural identity is profound for every nation. It forms the core essence that affirms the existence of a people. Nguyễn Trãi, the author of the legendary “Bình Ngô đại cáo,” emphasized this notion in his work, identifying culture and customs as fundamental to a nation’s identity. Furthermore, cultural identity fosters a sense of independence and a collective responsibility to protect the land. In a diverse and multi-colored world of nations, cultural identity is what makes each nation distinct and irreplaceable.

As Vietnam integrates into the global market and opens up to international cooperation, the role of cultural identity becomes even more vital, especially in relation to the responsibility of young people. The youth of Vietnam are actively contributing to preserving and promoting the nation's cultural heritage through positive actions. While foreign cultures influence the younger generation, many still return to traditional values that deeply reflect their national identity, such as folk games and cultural practices like ca trù and imperial court music. One noteworthy example is Miss H'Hen Niê, who wore a national costume inspired by bánh mì, symbolizing Vietnam’s agricultural pride, during her international pageant appearance.

However, in today's society, we also observe young people distancing themselves from their cultural roots. They are indifferent to both the material and spiritual aspects of traditional values, often elevating foreign cultures to excessive levels. For instance, many young people freely incorporate foreign words into their Vietnamese, which leads to unclear expressions and diminishes the purity of the language. These actions inadvertently undermine efforts to preserve and celebrate our national culture.

The youth must recognize the critical role that cultural identity plays in preserving the richness of Vietnam's heritage. They should strive to adopt lifestyles and behaviors that reflect the nation's traditional values, while actively promoting and safeguarding these distinctive cultural traits. At the same time, it is essential to denounce and reject any behaviors that contribute to the erosion of national identity and to challenge the rapid spread of unhealthy cultural practices in society.

Thus, the younger generation plays a vital role in preserving and advancing the national cultural identity. As students raised in the cradle of this rich heritage, we must commit ourselves to hard work, study, and contribute positively to building and protecting our homeland.

The world is increasingly moving toward integration, with cultural influences and exchanges becoming more powerful. Today, we cannot ignore the impact of global culture, as failing to embrace it could lead to greater backwardness and underdevelopment. Mobile phones, computers, televisions, and numerous electronic, biological, chemical, and physical products have flooded the world and become essential to the material and spiritual lives of Vietnamese people. However, alongside these benefits, there are concerns about the negative effects they may bring. It is crucial to reflect on how traditional Vietnamese cultural values can be preserved, safeguarded, and promoted in the lives of the Vietnamese people.

Traditional Vietnamese art and culture, with its various forms, are now at risk of fading away. These forms have existed for a long time and have had a strong appeal because they are rooted in the agricultural heritage of rice cultivation. However, with the strong influence of industrialization, these cultural forms no longer captivate the youth and middle class as they once did. Young people are no longer interested in traditional operas like tuong, cheo, or ca tru. The government, along with the Ministry of Culture, artists, and passionate cultural researchers, are all working hard to preserve and promote these traditional forms. But most importantly, this effort must involve the collective attention and commitment from all sectors of society.

The modern Ao Dai, a fusion of Eastern and Western clothing styles, represents the beauty of Vietnamese culture and should also be recognized and preserved. While material conditions have improved, many women no longer have the slender figures that once made the Ao Dai popular, and thus, they avoid wearing it, even on holidays. Meanwhile, internationally, the Ao Dai is highly admired. The Soviet cultural ambassador Roman Karmen, upon visiting Trưng Vương High School in Hanoi, exclaimed in awe upon seeing the female students in Ao Dai, saying, 'They look like angels.'

Some unique Vietnamese musical instruments are being overlooked and underappreciated. The stone instruments from the Central Highlands, which once left a deep impression on audiences both at home and abroad, are now only known to a few. Traditional instruments from ethnic minorities are also at risk of fading away as modern music dominates the cultural scene. Urbanization, while a sign of progress, has led to the erosion of traditional values in rural communities, and the once strong bonds of village life are no longer as deep as before.

Preserving cultural identity does not mean rejecting foreign influences. 'Cultural preservation' is different from 'cultural protection.' 'Preserving cultural identity' means safeguarding it so that it does not disappear, while 'protecting cultural identity' means preventing outside forces from infringing upon it. Preservation is not merely about keeping something in its original form, but also about fostering its growth and enrichment, incorporating new elements as necessary. When preserving and developing culture, careful selection and filtering of foreign influences is essential. Vietnamese culture has historically absorbed foreign elements while maintaining its distinct identity. The challenge lies in how to integrate these influences without losing the core values of Vietnamese culture. Many people who are passionate about preserving Vietnamese culture express concern over how foreign cultural elements have intruded and diluted traditional values. Recently, the appearance and performance styles of many singers and actors have sparked controversy, leading a significant portion of the audience to turn away from traditional theater. While Vietnamese people embrace the beauty of ballet, rock music, theater, and cinema, they reject pornography and violent computer games.

Preservation also requires thoughtful selection of cultural elements that are appropriate for specific contexts. Festivals are traditional cultural events, but the overabundance of festivals today leads to unnecessary expenses, fatigue, and even superstitions. Some even exploit festivals for personal gain.

Preserving cultural identity is both a long-term and urgent task. First and foremost, each individual must recognize the importance of preserving cultural identity in the proper way: everything may pass, but a nation's culture remains. Society and schools must strengthen education so that all citizens understand the values and expressions of traditional culture. A comprehensive and coordinated approach to preserving and promoting Vietnamese cultural identity is needed, and this must involve all sectors of society. There must be a structured and systematic approach to cultural education. Professor and scientist Trần Ngọc Thêm wrote, 'A few lessons on national culture in schools are just a drop in the ocean compared to the flood of media content. Consider how many films and articles in the media focus on educating about national culture, and how many focus on trends, the private lives of models and celebrities, or sensationalized crime stories. The media should increase coverage of national culture, so that the youth will understand the origins, meanings, and significance of cultural practices. By understanding the deep meanings behind ancestor worship, for example, young people will not treat it casually. By appreciating traditional Vietnamese performing arts, like chèo, tuồng, water puppetry, and cải lương, which are admired worldwide, young people will be less inclined to mindlessly chase after foreign trends. Understanding culture will help prevent many regrettable mistakes that frequently occur in daily life and media.'

In conclusion, every Vietnamese citizen must contribute, no matter how small, to preserving the cultural identity of our nation.

In the fast-paced rhythm of modern life, everything is changing rapidly, pushing humanity toward greater progress. However, there is one thing that must absolutely be preserved, maintained, and promoted: our national cultural identity.

The traditional culture of a nation consists of material and spiritual values that have been passed down through generations. The significance of this culture to any country is immense. It encapsulates the finest achievements of past generations, contributing to the distinct and unique identity of the nation that we cannot afford to lose. Culture is a broad concept, and here, we will not delve into its essence. But safeguarding our cultural traditions is the responsibility of the nation and every citizen.

For a nation to build and advance in all aspects, particularly in the economic, political, and social realms, the preservation and promotion of its traditional culture is indispensable. Culture forms the foundation of enduring values and provides a moral compass for citizens to cultivate positive traits and resilience in the face of contemporary challenges. Preserving cultural traditions also allows a nation to selectively embrace new influences for integration. We cannot allow foreign cultural elements to flood Vietnam indiscriminately; they must be filtered through the lens of tradition to ensure they align and contribute to our development. This is true for economic investments as well. While Vietnam seeks to prosper, the pursuit of wealth that disregards Vietnamese cultural values cannot sustain long-term success.

However, traditional culture also has its limitations, such as the complexity of customs, the overlap in relationships, and the inability to address larger contemporary issues effectively. Therefore, preservation must involve evolution to remain relevant. The most concerning challenge today is the excessive liberalism among the youth—the very generation responsible for carrying this cultural heritage forward. Along with this, the sometimes lax management of traditional cultural practices complicates efforts to safeguard our heritage, with potential implications for the nation's security and identity.

Nevertheless, we trust that the essence of Vietnamese culture, the beauty embedded in our traditions, remains ingrained in the subconscious of every citizen. Young people, in addition to being educated, must also cultivate their own awareness of this responsibility. Just as Japan and South Korea have developed while maintaining their cultural traditions, Vietnam can achieve progress while preserving its own cultural identity.

In today's world, as young people are exposed to and interact with more modern and advanced civilizations, the need to preserve our cultural identity has never been more urgent.

Modern society is evolving towards industrialization and modernization, where people are becoming more integrated. Unfortunately, many of our traditions are fading, and the younger generation seems increasingly indifferent or uninformed about the rich cultural heritage of our nation. Instead, they often lean towards and admire the cultures of other countries.

The consequence of embracing foreign cultures is the gradual erosion of our own valuable traditions. Many children today are unfamiliar with their own national culture, overshadowed by the allure of global trends. If this continues, we risk losing the very essence of what makes our country unique.

To address this issue, it is crucial that each individual, especially students, takes the time to learn about and appreciate the cultural heritage of our nation. We must preserve and share these values with the world. Schools should play an active role in promoting cultural awareness by organizing more activities and lessons on the importance of our national identity. Students should prioritize the responsibility of safeguarding their cultural heritage and continually enhance their knowledge of our nation's beautiful cultural values.

Even small actions by individuals can have a significant impact on preserving our nation's traditions. It is essential that we develop a proper understanding and take proactive steps to protect and celebrate the rich cultural legacy of Vietnam, making our country an even more vibrant place for future generations.

In today's age of industrialization and modernization, we students have more opportunities than ever to gain knowledge, broaden our horizons, and integrate with the world. However, to truly grow as individuals in both mind and spirit, we must actively engage in learning about, protecting, and preserving our cultural identity.

One undeniable reality is that society is advancing towards industrialization and globalization, with people becoming more open and integrated with foreign cultures. Yet, in this process, we sometimes forget or neglect the beauty and traditions of the very country in which we were born and raised. Many aspects of our cultural identity have started to fade, with younger generations showing less interest in our traditions and heritage.

This neglect leads to the gradual loss of our valuable cultural traditions. Many of our folk festivals and cultural competitions no longer attract the same attention they once did, or they are only celebrated in a superficial manner. Today's youth are less invested in these traditions and tend to focus more on external, modern influences. This shift is causing us to lose touch with the core values of our nation.

To address this issue, it is essential for every individual, particularly students, to actively explore and embrace the cultural identity of our nation. We must take the responsibility to preserve and share these cultural values with the world. Schools should organize more activities that promote cultural awareness, providing students with a deeper understanding of our national heritage. Students must prioritize the preservation of our cultural identity and continuously work on deepening their knowledge of the rich traditions of our country. Only then can we ensure the survival and flourishing of our cultural heritage.

Preserving our cultural identity is a collective responsibility for all Vietnamese people, who share the same heritage. Therefore, we must all recognize the importance of safeguarding and enhancing these traditions so that they can grow stronger and be appreciated more widely.