Lao Song
 |
| Total population | |
|---|---|
| 45,000 | |
| Regions with significant populations | |
| Thailand | |
| Languages | |
| Lao Song,Thai,Isan | |
| Religion | |
| Theravada Buddhism | |
| Related ethnic groups | |
| Tai Dam,Lao,Thai,Dai |
TheLao Song(Thai:ลาวโซ่ง,pronounced[lāːwsôːŋ]) are anethnic groupofThailand.The Lao Song are also known as theTai Song(ไทโซ่ง),Lao Song Dam(ลาวทรงดำ), or simply as theSongorSong Dam.
History[edit]
The Lao Song are descendants ofLaopeoples from the areas ofTonkinand areas east ofLuang Prabangwhen they were forcibly removed to central Thailand as slaves andcorvéelabourers during Siamese annexation during the 18th and 19th centuries. Most were members of theTai Damethnic group (counted by the Chinese government as members of theDaiethnic group). The preservation of their traditional dress, language, and culture is notable in the face ofThaificationpolicies. The Lao Song were used as guards for the royal courts and to help control the powerful Chinese minority, which explains their widespread distribution.
Geographic distribution[edit]
There are approximately 34,000 Lao Song spread out over central Thailand, includingPhetchabun,Phitsanulok,Nakhon Sawan,Ratchaburi,Suphan Buri,Kanchanaburi,Chumphon,andNakhon PathomProvinces.
Religion[edit]
Although originally they believed inanimism,most Lao Song are nowTheravada Buddhists,but this often co-exists with the older religion.
Economy[edit]
- Farming
- Handicrafts
References[edit]
External links[edit]
Further reading[edit]
- Hattaway, Paul. (2004).Peoples of the Buddhist World: A Christian Prayer Guide.Pasadena: William Carey Library.
- Zhu, Liangwen (1992).The Dai: Or the Tai and Their Architecture and Customs in South China.Bangkok, Thailand, and Kunming, Yunnan, China: D D Books and The Science and Technology Press of Yunnan.
