Why did the French originally enter Vietnam?

Question

Why did the French originally enter Vietnam?

Answer 1

1. Economic Interests:
2. Trade and Resources: The French were looking forward to the opening of trade routes that would allow them to get most of Southeast Asia's rich natural wealth. Through Vietnam, it would gain rare goods such as rice, minerals, and others.
3. Expansion:
4. Imperial Ambitions: During the 19th century, European powers were greatly increasing their empires in Asia and Africa. France wanted to compete with other European powers like Britain and find its place in the establishment of its own colonial empire.
5. Strategic Location:
6. Regional Influence: The country of Vietnam, situated in Southeast Asia, held the strategic location for the control of trade routes and footholds in the region. This involved the rivalry with other colonial powers.
7. Missionary Work:
8. Spread of Christianity: French missionaries had been active in Vietnam, and their work in the spread of Christianity received sustenance from the French colonial interests.