The Second Treaty of Saigon was signed in 1874, following the First Treaty of Saigon in 1862 that marked the beginning of French colonial rule in Vietnam. The context of the treaty stemmed from France's desire to expand its colonial empire in Southeast Asia, reflecting broader imperial ambitions during the Age of Imperialism. Under the treaty, Vietnam formally recognized French sovereignty over Cochinchina, which included modern-day southern Vietnam. This solidification of control enabled further French economic exploitation and administrative oversight in the region.

The treaty emerged at a time of considerable tension within Vietnam, as internal divisions and the influence of foreign powers created a complex political landscape. French interests had been previously contested, leading to military engagement and pressure for concessions from Vietnamese leaders. The signing of the Second Treaty of Saigon represented not just a legal formalization of French claims but also a shift in power dynamics within Vietnam, as the country increasingly fell under foreign influence.

Critically, the treaty facilitated the establishment of a more organized colonial administration in Cochinchina. French authorities implemented various reforms aimed at exploiting resources and introducing new agricultural practices, significantly impacting local society and economy. This move laid the groundwork for further annexations of Vietnamese territory, which would follow in the subsequent decades. Over time, it fundamentally altered the socio-political landscape of Vietnam, leading to resistance movements that would seek to challenge colonial rule.