The origins of the Hmong dates back over three
thousand years to China. For centuries, Hmong kingdoms
and other settlements fought with China’s armies
to maintain their independence. Finally they were
defeated. Survivors fled
to the mountainous regions in southwest China, where
many still live today.
 The Hmong began migrating into
Laos and Vietnam between 1810 and 1820. From 1960 and
1975, the U.S. recruited and trainded the Hmong to fight communism
during
the Secret War in Laos. The objective of their
involvement was to stop communist expansion and take
pressure off U.S. troops in South Vietnam. After the
American withdrawal from Southeast Asia, the Hmong were
slaughtered by the communist
forces in Laos and Vietnam. To escape, thousands of Hmong fled to Thailand.
There they stayed in refugee camps until they could be
resettled in another country. Between 1975 and 1988,
many Hmong refugees came to the United States.
The main religion of the Hmong people is Animalism. They
believe in ancestor spirits and worship by sacrificing
animals like chicken and pigs. The Hmong people would take
chicken blood and feather to paster it on a paper money.
They normally do this at New Years Festivals, wedding
celebrations, and funerals. They would pray for good luck
and protection from evil spirits. The Hmong believe in
their spiritual leaders called the Shamans. The Shaman is an
important member of the community, acting as doctor,
spiritual counselor, dream interpreter, and
an elder who serves as a bridge between the physical and
spirit worlds. The shaman's healing rituals provide
existence with a moral interpretation and meaningfulness. |
Largest Hmong populations are California,
Minnesota, Wisconsin