The Office of Governor-General in the Nguyễn Dynasty's Bureaucratic System: A Perspective from the Administrative Reforms

Abstract

The local administrative reforms implemented from 1831 to 1832 enabled Emperor Minh Mệnh to consolidate the organizational structure of the Nguyễn Dynasty’s state apparatus, ushering the dynasty into the most prosperous phase of its rule. Within these reforms, the office of Tổng đốc (Governor-General) was established as the position overseeing a province or group of provinces directly under the central court. This article examines several aspects related to the scope of authority and influence associated with the GovernorGeneral, thereby contributing to a clearer understanding of the nature of the Nguyễn state apparatus during its zenith under Emperor Minh Mệnh.