The war marked the end of French colonial rule in Vietnam. Vietnam had been under French control since the mid-19th century, and the struggle for independence intensified after World War II.
The Viet Minh, a communist-driven nationalist movement commanded by Chi Minh, led the conflict. Chi Minh was instrumental in uniting diverse nationalist movements opposing French colonization.
The Battle is best recognized for the victory of the Viet Minh forces headed by General Nguyen Giap over the French forces. This triumph was a watershed moment that resulted in the Geneva Accords. The conflict ended in 1954 with the signing of the Geneva Accords.