In 1858, French and Spanish-led forces stormed Danang after several missionaries had been killed. A year later, Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon) was seized.

By 1867, France had conquered all of southern Vietnam, which became the French colony of Cochin China.

Dalat was founded by French colonialists as a resort area because of its temperate climate. The Dalat Palace Hotel was the first major structure built in Dalat and the rest of the city was built around it.

Under the leadership of Ho Chi Minh Vietnam resisted French domination.

In July I 995, America re-established diplomatic relations with Vietnam.