The exhibition aims to pay tribute to revolutionary journalists and steadfast fighters who, despite being imprisoned by foreign invaders, remained unwavering in their ideals and continued to use the written word as a weapon in the struggle for national liberation.
    |
 |
|
At the People’s Army Newspaper exhibition space at the event |
The first section, themed “Vietnamese Revolutionary Press: Historical Milestones,” highlights the role of the press during the resistance wars against the French colonialists and American imperialists. Amid bombings, shortages, and constant danger, newspapers continued to be published, delivering timely information, documenting the realities of war, inspiring patriotism, and strengthening confidence in ultimate victory. Over more than a century of development, Vietnam’s revolutionary press has remained closely connected to the nation and its people.
The second section, “Steel Pen, Loyal Heart,” portrays journalists and revolutionary fighters who continued to write, print, and circulate newspapers despite imprisonment or the hardships of the battlefield. Even under severe material shortages, handmade publications were secretly produced and distributed.
|
|
 |
|
An area featuring the theme “Into the Line of Fire” at the event |
Through these publications, war correspondents conveyed information, inspired hope, and strengthened the will to fight, turning the pen into a powerful weapon on the ideological front. Their work reflected courage, intelligence, and a profound sense of responsibility.
A highlight of the exhibition is the display titled “The Pen behind Bars.” Despite brutal prison conditions and harsh punishment, revolutionary prisoners used writing to challenge oppression, spread revolutionary ideals, and encourage resistance. Under the guidance of Party organizations, political prisoners devised innovative ways to write, print, and distribute underground newspapers, giving voice to imprisoned revolutionaries during the struggle for national independence.
At Hoa Lo Prison in late 1930 and early 1931, the prison’s Party cell directed the publication of newspapers that documented prison life, condemned harsh detention policies, promoted revolutionary ideas, and sustained prisoners’ optimism. Secret publications such as Lao Tu Tap Chi (Prison Magazine), Con Duong Chinh (The Right Path), Doi tu (Prison Life), and Xuan Tu (Prison Spring) were produced and concealed beneath floors, inside wall crevices, and in other hidden locations before being passed discreetly among revolutionary prisoners.
At Con Dao Prison, where inmates endured isolation and severe confinement, revolutionary newspapers became a vital link among political prisoners. Using simple materials such as cigarette-packaging paper, cement paper, and broom bristles, prisoners produced and circulated publications, helping maintain resilience and optimism despite harsh conditions.
|
|
 |
|
The “Steel Pen, Loyal Heart” exhibition attracts large numbers of visitors. |
The exhibition also features the theme “Into the Line of Fire,” showcasing photographs and artifacts from wartime newsrooms. Often established near trenches or in underground shelters, these makeshift editorial offices ensured the timely delivery of news to the public while conveying the nation’s aspirations for peace and independence.
Through photographs and portraits of journalists and war correspondents, visitors gain deeper insight into the history and contributions of Vietnam’s revolutionary press.
The exhibition also serves as a tribute to journalists and soldiers who sacrificed their lives and devoted themselves to the development of Vietnam’s revolutionary journalism.
The exhibition will run until November 15.
Translated by Tran Hoai