Laotians refers to the people who are native to or have ancestral ties to Laos, a country located in Southeast Asia. Laos, officially known as the Lao People's Democratic Republic, is a landlocked nation bordered by Myanmar, China, Vietnam, Cambodia, and Thailand. Laotians are often described as the ethnic group that primarily resides in this country, and they are known by various cultural, linguistic, and historical aspects.
Ethnically, the Laotians mainly belong to the Lao ethnic group, which is a branch of the larger Tai ethnic family. However, Laos is also home to several other ethnic groups, such as the Khmu, Hmong, and Akha, among others. Despite these diversities, the label "Laotians" typically encompasses all these different groups as a collective term.
Historically, Laos has been influenced by neighboring cultures and civilizations, including those of the Khmer Empire and various Thai kingdoms. This has led to a unique blend of cultures and traditions among Laotians. The predominant religion in Laos is Theravada Buddhism, though animism and traditional practices also hold significance in their daily lives.
The Laotian language, also called Lao, is the official language of Laos. It is a member of the Tai-Kadai language family and shares some similarities with Thai. However, Lao has its own distinctive script and pronunciation.
Laotians, known for their warm hospitality and friendly nature, have diverse occupations and livelihoods. They engage in agriculture, fishing, handicrafts, and trade. Moreover, since the 20th century, many Laotians have migrated to different parts of the world, including the United States, Canada, Australia, and Europe, establishing Laotian diaspora communities. These communities often
