Ba Cụt

Who Was Ba Cụt?

Ba Cụt, a name that echoes through the tumultuous history of Vietnam during World War II, was more than just a military commander; he was a complex figure whose life and actions shaped the course of events in South Vietnam. Born in Long Xuyên, Mekong Delta, Ba Cụt’s early life was marked by tragedy—his parents passed away when he was young, leading him to be adopted by a local peasant family.

Early Life and Vow

Ba Cụt severed his left index finger as part of a vow to defeat the French. He swore not to cut his hair until the communist Việt Minh were defeated. This act, while symbolic, was just one of many erratic decisions that defined his leadership style.

Leadership and Ideology

Ba Cụt’s followers claimed he had mystical healing powers, drawing adherents for his prophecies and work as a healer. However, his leadership was often characterized by cruelty and ruthlessness. He led various factions of the Hòa Hảo militia, sometimes allying with the French against the Việt Minh but frequently breaking his agreements.

Conflict and Alliances

The Hòa Hảo initially clashed with the Việt Minh in 1945 but later joined forces against the French. After Sổ’s assassination, the group split into factions leading to increased violence. Ba Cụt rose to power within this context, becoming notorious for his erratic and cruel leadership.

French Involvement

In 1947, Ba Cụt’s faction was recognized by the French as the legitimate leader of the Hòa Hảo. However, he repeatedly broke promises to fight against the Việt Minh in exchange for arms and money from the French. Despite his disloyalty, the French continued to furnish him with supplies due to a lack of personnel.

Decline and Capture

Ba Cụt’s story took a dramatic turn as the French defeat at Điện Biên Phủ in May 1954 signaled the end of French Indochina. The Geneva Conference handed North Vietnam to Hồ Chí Minh’s Việt Minh, leaving South Vietnam under the State of Vietnam. Ba Cụt vowed not to cut his hair until the nation was reunified.

Operation Ecaille, an initial military offensive by the VNA against Ba Cụt’s forces, failed. As Diệm took control and sought to subdue remaining autonomous factions, he launched an offensive against Ba Cụt in March 1955. Despite efforts, Ba Cụt managed to evade capture for some time.

On April 13, 1956, after being defeated in battle, Ba Cụt was arrested and put on trial for treason. Diệm’s government accused him of collaborating with communists and rallying against the central government four times. Despite a plea for clemency, Diệm rejected it and ordered the execution.

Legacy

Ba Cụt’s body was diced into small pieces and buried separately. His followers reacted strongly to the verdicts as ‘shameful and unjust.’ Many retreated to the Cambodian border vowing revenge, while others joined the Việt Cộng and took up arms against Diệm.

So, who was Ba Cụt? A complex figure whose life and actions continue to be debated. His legacy remains a part of the intricate tapestry of Vietnam’s history, a reminder of the challenges faced in unifying a nation.