Le Quy Don was born in 1726 and died in 1784. He was a distinguished philosopher, a poet as well as an encyclopaedist. Especially, he was responsible for a large number of encyclopaedic, historical and philosophical works. Until now, he is still respected for his sharp wit and wide knowledge. There are some interesting stories about this historical man. When he was a child, he created a poem, using double meanings to describe the characteristics of different snakes. The poem can also be interpreted as a lazy student’s self-accusation and promise to study harder.

King Le Loi, also known as Le Thai To, was born in 1385. He was a determined leader of the Lam Son uprising against the Ming invaders from 1418 to 1427. He and his army had suffered many hardships and difficulties before he freed the country and became King in 1428. He was respected for his perseverance during the ten years’ war. There is an interesting legend that the event of his returning of the magical sword to a golden turtle after the war against the invaders led to the history of the name Sword Lake in Ha Noi.