The Battle of Dien Bien Phu was a significant conflict that took place from March to May 1954 in northern Vietnam. It was fought between the French colonial forces and the Viet Minh, a communist-led nationalist movement. The battle marked a turning point in the First Indochina War, as the Viet Minh aimed to end French colonial rule in Vietnam. The French established a fortified base at Dien Bien Phu, but the Viet Minh surrounded and besieged it. After weeks of intense fighting, the French forces surrendered on May 7, 1954. This defeat led to the Geneva Accords, which ultimately divided Vietnam into North and South, setting the stage for future conflicts.