The proclamation of Nguyễn Huệ as Emperor Quang Trung was a pivotal moment in Vietnamese history, reflecting both his military prowess and vision for the nation. Following a series of successful military campaigns against the Qing dynasty and internal factions, Nguyễn Huệ solidified his hold on power by declaring himself emperor. This act was symbolic, not just as a personal ambition but as a rallying call for the Vietnamese people, seeking to unify them under a strong central leadership during a tumultuous period marked by war and instability.

The declaration took place in the capital city of Thăng Long (modern-day Hanoi), where he asserted that he would restore order and prosperity while championing the cultural and social welfare of the Vietnamese. His reign would focus on reforms in land distribution, military organization, and taxation, aimed at improving the lives of the populace. Quang Trung's rise was particularly significant as it represented the overthrow of the longstanding Lê dynasty, which had suffered from internal corruption and incompetence.

Quang Trung's reign was characterized by efforts to fortify Vietnam against external threats, particularly from China. He was celebrated for his military strategies, including the famed Battle of Ngọc Hồi - Đống Đa against Qing invaders, which showcased his tactical genius and boosted national morale. His brief rule was one marked by instability, as he struggled to consolidate power and contend with rival factions, yet it laid the foundation for the subsequent Nguyễn dynasty, which would endure longer and stabilize Vietnam.