Who Is Bảo Đại? Age, Biography and Wiki
As of 2025, Bảo Đại, the last emperor of Vietnam, would have celebrated his birthday on October 22, reaching the age of 112. Born in 1913, he ascended the throne in 1926 and ruled until 1945. His reign was marked by significant historical events, including the rise of nationalism and the end of colonial rule in Vietnam. Although he was a controversial figure and seen as a puppet of the French colonial regime during his tenure, Bảo Đại remains a critical figure in Vietnamese history. His personal life, filled with intrigue and romance, adds layers to his legacy.
| Occupation | Political Leaders |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | October 22, 1913 |
| Age | 83 Years |
| Birth Place | Doan-Trang-Vien Palace, Imperial City of Huế, Annam, French Indochina |
| Horoscope | Libra |
| Country | France |
| Date of death | 31 July, 1997 |
| Died Place | Val-de-Grâce, Paris, France |
Popularity
Bảo Đại's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
Details regarding Bảo Đại's physical stature, including his height and weight, are not precisely documented. However, during his prime years, he was known to have an imposing presence, reflective of his royal status.
- Height: Estimated around 5 feet 10 inches
- Weight: Approximately 150 lbs
- Measurements: Not specifically recorded
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
Bảo Đại's personal life was just as complex as his reign. He married Empress Nam Phương (Marie Thérèse Nguyen Huu Thi Lan) in 1934, and together they had three children. However, the couple faced marital challenges, especially during the tumultuous periods of the Second World War and the subsequent establishment of the Democratic Republic of Vietnam. After their divorce, Bảo Đại was known to have had relationships with various women, but he remained a loyal father to his children.
- Spouse: Marie Thérèse Nguyen Huu Thi Lan (divorced)
- Children: 3
- Relationship Status: Widowed; previously had significant relationships but no known current girlfriend or partner.
He was later given the name Nguyễn Vĩnh Thụy. His father was Emperor Khải Định of Annam. His mother was the emperor's second wife, Tu Cung, who was renamed 'Doan Huy' upon her marriage. She held various titles over the years that indicated her advancing rank as a favored consort until she eventually became Empress Dowager in 1933.
Vietnam had been ruled from Huế by the Nguyễn dynasty since 1802. The French government, which took control of the region in the late 19th century, split Vietnam into three areas: the protectorates of Annam and Tonkin and the colony of Cochinchina. The Nguyễn dynasty was given nominal rule of Annam.
Net Worth and Salary
While exact figures for Bảo Đại's net worth in 2025 are speculative, historical records suggest he accumulated wealth during his reign through land ownership and investments. After his abdication, much of his wealth was lost or mismanaged. However, as a historical figure, Bảo Đại's estate likely holds value, primarily through memorabilia and collectibles.
- Estimated Net Worth: Varies, but historical estimates suggest a few million dollars at peak
- Annual Salary: Not applicable since his official reign ended in 1945
Career, Business and Investments
Bảo Đại’s career was primarily political, acting as the last sovereign of Vietnam. His involvement in various governmental roles post-abdication shaped his legacy. After leaving Vietnam in 1954, he spent many years in France, where he engaged in business activities, including real estate ventures. His investments and royal heritage have contributed to the nostalgia and interest surrounding his name today.
In 1940, during the second World War, coinciding with their ally Nazi Germany's invasion of France, Imperial Japan took over French Indochina. While they did not eject the French colonial administration, the occupation authorities directed policy from behind the scenes in a parallel of Vichy France.
The Japanese promised not to interfere with the court at Huế, but in 1945, after ousting the French, coerced Bảo Đại into declaring Vietnamese independence from France as a member of Japan's "Greater East Asia Co-Prosperity Sphere"; the country then became the Empire of Vietnam.
Social Network
As a historical figure with enduring cultural significance, Bảo Đại does not maintain traditional social media profiles. However, various fan pages and historical groups on platforms like Facebook and Instagram discuss his life and reign. These platforms serve to educate new generations about his contributions and challenges.
- Facebook: Multiple fan pages documenting history
- Instagram: Archives and historical snapshots
- Twitter: Discussions about Vietnamese history and legacy
Bảo Đại spent nearly a year as "supreme advisor" to the DRV, during which period Vietnam descended into armed conflict between rival Vietnamese factions and the French. He left this post in 1946 after communists abandoned him in China. He moved to Hong Kong, where the French and Việt Minh both attempted unsuccessfully to solicit him for political support.
Education
Bảo Đại received his early education in Vietnam before continuing his studies in France. His time in France played a crucial role in shaping his worldview, influencing his interactions with French colonial powers and his approach to governance upon his return to Vietnam.
- Schools Attended: École Française d'Extrême-Orient, various schools in France
- Degree: Not formally recorded, but educated in political and administrative matters
Bảo Đại, however, appeared to believe that independence was an irreversible course. In 1944, he wrote to General de Gaulle, leader of the Free French:
