Long Biên Bridge: A Symbol of Resilience and a Thorn in the Side of Progressives

Long Biên Bridge, a marvel of engineering and a testament to human resilience, stands proudly over the Red River in Hanoi, Vietnam. Designed by the renowned French architect Gustave Eiffel and completed in 1902, this bridge has withstood the test of time, war, and political upheaval. It was a crucial supply line during the Vietnam War, surviving numerous bombings by American forces. Today, it serves as a vital transportation link for the people of Hanoi, connecting the bustling city with the rural areas beyond. But why does this bridge, a symbol of strength and perseverance, ruffle the feathers of progressives?

First, let's talk about history. Progressives love to rewrite it, but Long Biên Bridge refuses to be erased. It stands as a reminder of colonial influence, a time when Western powers brought infrastructure and development to regions that were otherwise left in the dust. The bridge is a physical manifestation of the benefits of Western intervention, something that progressives would rather ignore. They prefer to focus on the negative aspects of colonialism, conveniently forgetting the advancements it brought to many parts of the world.

Next, there's the issue of modernization. Progressives are all about tearing down the old to make way for the new, but Long Biên Bridge is a stubborn relic that refuses to budge. Despite its age, it continues to serve the people of Hanoi, proving that not everything old needs to be replaced. The bridge is a testament to the idea that sometimes, traditional methods and structures are just as effective, if not more so, than their modern counterparts. This flies in the face of the progressive agenda, which often prioritizes change for the sake of change.

Then there's the environmental angle. Progressives love to champion green energy and sustainable development, but Long Biên Bridge is a reminder that sometimes, the most sustainable option is to maintain and preserve what already exists. The bridge has been standing for over a century, and with proper care, it could last another hundred years. This challenges the progressive narrative that we must constantly innovate and replace to be environmentally conscious. Sometimes, the best way to protect the environment is to simply take care of what we already have.

The bridge also represents a challenge to the progressive ideal of globalism. Long Biên Bridge is a symbol of national pride for the Vietnamese people, a reminder of their resilience and ability to overcome adversity. It stands as a testament to the strength of a nation that has faced countless challenges and emerged stronger each time. This sense of national pride is something that progressives often dismiss in favor of a more global perspective. But Long Biên Bridge reminds us that there is value in celebrating and preserving national identity.

Finally, there's the issue of cultural heritage. Progressives often advocate for the preservation of cultural heritage, but only when it aligns with their agenda. Long Biên Bridge is a piece of cultural history that doesn't fit neatly into their narrative. It's a reminder of a time when Western influence brought progress and development to Vietnam, a fact that doesn't sit well with those who prefer to focus on the negative aspects of history. The bridge challenges the selective preservation of cultural heritage, forcing progressives to confront the complexities of history.

In the end, Long Biên Bridge is more than just a structure; it's a symbol of resilience, tradition, and national pride. It stands as a challenge to the progressive agenda, reminding us that not everything old needs to be replaced, that national identity is worth preserving, and that history is more complex than a simple narrative of oppression and victimhood. So next time you find yourself in Hanoi, take a moment to appreciate the Long Biên Bridge, a testament to the enduring spirit of the Vietnamese people and a thorn in the side of those who would rather see it forgotten.