Emperor Tu Duc’s real name is Nguyen Phuc Hong Nham, his nickname is Thi. He is the second son of Emperor Thieu Tri and Madam Pham Thi Hang (Queen Tu Du). He was born on August 25 of the lunar year of Ky Suu (September 22nd 1829 solar calendar).

Emperor Tu Duc came to the throne in October of the lunar year of Dinh Mui (1847). His reign lasted for 36 years until he passed away on July 19th 1883 at the age of 55. His tablet was worshiped in The Mieu temple with the posthumous title of Duc Tong Anh Hoang De. Emperor Tu Duc had no children, he accepted 3 nephews as his adoptive sons. They are Nguyen Phuc Ung Chan (Emperor Duc Duc later), Nguyen Phuc Ung Duong (Emperor Dong Khanh later) and Nguyen Phuc Ung Dang (Emperor Kien Phuc later).