Who Are the Khmer?
The Khmer are the predominant ethnic group of Cambodia, numbering approximately 16 million (90% of Cambodia's population), with significant populations in Vietnam's Mekong Delta (Khmer Krom, about 1 million) and Thailand (Northern Khmer). They speak Khmer, the oldest recorded Austroasiatic language (inscriptions from 7th century). The Khmer created the Angkor Empire (802-1431), which built Angkor Wat—the world's largest religious monument—and dominated mainland Southeast Asia. The genocide under Khmer Rouge (1975-1979) killed nearly 2 million (approximately 25% of the population), devastating Cambodia. Contemporary Khmer rebuild from this trauma while reclaiming ancient heritage.
Angkor Empire
The Khmer Empire (802-1431) was Southeast Asia's most powerful medieval state. Founded by Jayavarman II, it expanded to encompass much of modern Cambodia, Thailand, Laos, and Vietnam. Angkor, the capital, was possibly history's largest pre-industrial city (population estimates reach 1 million). Angkor Wat, built by Suryavarman II (12th century), was originally Hindu (dedicated to Vishnu), later converted to Buddhism. The empire's sophisticated hydraulic engineering (barays—reservoirs, canals) supported intensive rice agriculture. Decline came through Thai invasions, ecological strain, and shifting trade routes. Angkor's rediscovery by Europeans in the 19th century began its restoration.
Khmer Rouge Genocide
The Khmer Rouge regime (1975-1979) under Pol Pot implemented radical agrarian communism, evacuating cities, abolishing money, and targeting "enemies"—educated people, minorities, Buddhist monks, and perceived dissidents. An estimated 1.7-2.2 million died—from execution, starvation, disease, and overwork. The S-21 prison (Tuol Sleng) and Killing Fields became symbols of horror. Vietnamese invasion (1978-1979) ended the regime but occupation lasted until 1989. The genocide's trauma permeates Cambodian society—nearly every family lost members; psychological wounds persist across generations. Justice came slowly; Khmer Rouge tribunals only began in 2006.
Culture and Buddhism
Khmer culture blends Hindu-Buddhist heritage, animist traditions, and distinctive arts. Theravada Buddhism shapes daily life—95% Buddhist; temples are community centers; monks receive morning alms. Apsara dance—classical dance depicting celestial nymphs from Angkor reliefs—was nearly destroyed under Khmer Rouge but has been revived. Khmer New Year (Chaul Chnam Thmey), Pchum Ben (ancestor festival), and Water Festival are major celebrations. Traditional music features pin peat ensembles. Rice cultivation structures rural life; fish from Tonle Sap Lake are dietary staples. This culture, nearly extinguished by genocide, is actively preserved and celebrated.
Contemporary Cambodia
Modern Cambodia rebuilds from genocide and civil war. Prime Minister Hun Sen, in power since 1985 (one of the world's longest-ruling leaders), has overseen economic growth but restricted democracy and human rights. Tourism (especially Angkor) drives the economy; garment manufacturing provides employment; Chinese investment is significant but controversial. Challenges include poverty, land grabbing, corruption, and environmental degradation (illegal logging, sand dredging). Young Cambodians—70% born after the genocide—navigate between trauma's legacy and aspirations for better future. How Cambodia develops economically while addressing governance issues and preserving culture shapes its future.
References
- Chandler, D. P. (2008). A History of Cambodia (4th ed.)
- Kiernan, B. (2008). The Pol Pot Regime: Race, Power, and Genocide in Cambodia
- Coe, M. D. (2003). Angkor and the Khmer Civilization