Legacies of Vietnam's imperial examinations, 1075–1919: More investment in education and better educational outcomes

Abstract

This study measures the impact of the number of people who passed the Vietnamese imperial examinations (1075–1919) on the present-day quantity and quality of education in their home districts. Our analyses at the district and individual levels are based mainly on the data of successful imperial test takers, the 2009 population census, and 2009 National Entrance Exams to University test scores. We find a persistent legacy in educational attainment outcomes. Although there may be multiple channels that explain the long-term historical effects, a tradition of human capital investment and cultural elements are among the most important factors.