Question

Which idea, other than economic exploitation, was behind French colonisation of Vietnam

Answer 1

the civilizing mission of the colonies. I'm pretty sure.

Answer 2

The civilizing mission is the right answer.

The civilizing mission of French colonists was another important reason behind French colonization of Vietnam. They bring out a ‘civilizing mission' to improve their colony of Vietnam. Therefore, they found education as an important tool for this. The French policymakers wanted to introduce their French language as the language of instruction because they considered that it will promote the culture of France in Vietnam. They believed that the learning of the French language will fulfill their purpose of civilizing the Vietnamese. According to them, the educated people of Vietnam will pay respect to the French culture moreover, they will be able to get employees on a cheap rate.