Cảm Hoá

Cảm Hóa lies among the forested mountains of Bắc Kạn, between the river valleys of Thái Nguyên and the northern frontier. Established as a district in 1490, it formed part of the old Thông Hóa prefecture. Its hills contained mines that drew workers from across the border; in 1739 officials reported that people from China were entering the area to mine without permission, prompting concern over control of the frontier.