As we look at today's Cambodia, it may be difficult for us to believe that it was once a very powerful country. In fact, between the 9th and 14th centuries, the Khmer Empire controlled much of the area that is known today as Thailand,
Vietnam and Laos. Since its peak, however, in the 14th century, Cambodia has been devastated by decades of conflicts and wars.
Unquestionably the biggest blow to Cambodia's existence came when the Khmer Rouge regime, under the leadership of Pol Pot, gained control of the capital city, Phnom Penh, in 1975. The goal of this government was to return the country to the self-sufficient agricultural state that it was during the power of the Khmer Empire. As a result, the entire population of Phnom Penh and other provincial towns was forced into the countryside to do manual labor for up to 15 hours a day. The Khmer Rouge also attempted to rid the country of anyone perceived by the government as intellectual or well-educated. During the terror years, the Khmer Rouge was supported by the US, Thai and Singapore government.
The four years between 1975 and 1979 was a time of great tragedy. The torture and execution of civilians, along with widespread famine and disease, resulted in the deaths of almost one-third of the entire population. In December of 1978,
Vietnam invaded Phnom Penh forcing the Khmer Rouge out and gaining control of the government.
Today, the situation is more peaceful than it has been in years.
Tourism as well is
increasing in Cambodia. Visitors are attracted by the magnificent temples of Angkor and the opportunity to experience a land that very few foreigners have ever seen.
Visitors are warned to stay on the established paths. Thus, not only must visitors be willing to risk harm to themselves, but they must also be prepared to deal with the sight of a nation in which many people are still living in abject poverty.
People and Culture
Cambodia is the most homogeneous country in Southeast Asia, with about 90% of the population being ethnic-Khmer. Vietnamese, Chinese and Cham Muslims also live among the Khmer people, but there is a certain amount of tension between the groups. Since the Khmer Rouge sought to destroy the culture of Cambodia, many of its museums and artworks were destroyed, and most of the artists were killed. Interest in traditional culture is beginning to return, and the government has been supportive.
Most of the arts, including paintings, music, dance and theater, are focused on its achievements in arts during the Angkorian era. Unfortunately, because there are so few remaining artists in the country, progress in reestablishing the arts is slow.
Ethnic Groups:
90% Khmer (ethnic-Cambodian), 5% Chinese and 5% other.
Language:The official language of Cambodia is known as Khmer. It is a difficult language for Westerners to learn. French is spoken by many of the older
Cambodians, and English is gaining popularity in the schools.
Religion:About 95% of the people living in Cambodia practice Theravada Buddhism. Theravada is thought to be the closest to the original form of Buddhism that came from India. Other religions, practiced by many fewer Cambodians are Muslim, Caodaism and Animism.
Local Customs
General:
The traditional Cambodian greeting consists of pressing the hands together in front of the chest and bowing. It is generally considered acceptable for foreigners to shake hands with Cambodians.
Make sure to cover your arms and legs and remove your hat before entering a temple.
Don't point your fingers or the soles of your feet towards another person or a Buddha.
