Geography of Cambodia
Covering an area of 181,035 square kilometers Cambodia is about half the size of Germany and about one-third of France. To the West the country is bordered by Thailand, to the North by Laos and to the East by Vietnam. By far the most important river of Cambodia is the Mekong, which passes through the country for about 500 kilometers in a North-Southerly direction. The Mekong is passable for ships from its delta in Vietnam up to Phnom Penh to the North. Southeast Asia's largest inner lake, Tonlé Sap Lake, is located in Cambodia and is connected to the Mekong by a tributary, also called Tonlé Sap River. For most of the time this river flows from Tonlé Sap Lake into the Mekong. However, during the Southeast Asian rainy season and summer monsoon combined with the melting of Tonlé Sap River flows from the Mekong up into Tonlé Sap Lake, thus causing enormous floods in the area surrounding the lake. During this time, Tonlé Sap Lake can swell to more than twice its regular size and water level can rise up to more than 5 meters high!
Central Cambodia is a fertile plain. Mountain ranges in the shape of a semi-circle form a natural boundary with Thailand. In the West are the Cardamom Mountains (designated after the spice of the same name), in the Southwest the Elephant Mountains and in the North the Dangrek Mountain Range. The highest mountain in Cambodia is Phnom Aural in the Cardamom range, at a height of 1,813 meters.
To date these mountain ranges were comparatively densely covered with forest and are only sparsely populated, however the forests coverage tends to subsequently reduce in size due to heavily deforestation in the past decade.
The Southern coastal strip has recently joins the “Most Beautiful Bays in the World” Club, and the Cambodian government is pushing for its development with the upgrade and now operational new Sihanoukville International Airport with flights linking the Beach Resort City to the famed Temple City of Siem Reap – Angkor, making it the third international gateway to the Kingdom.
Population of Cambodia
According to the last population census in 2008 and with the figures updated in 2012 (UN estimates), Cambodia now counts a population of about 14.5 Millions. This makes Cambodia the second smallest country in Southeast Asia in terms of population. Most other Southeast Asian countries outnumber the population of Cambodia by several times: Indonesia with 244.7 Millions, Vietnam with 89.7 Millions, the Philippines with 96.5 Millions, Thailand with 69.9 Millions, Burma with 48.7 Millions and Malaysia with 29.3 Millions. Only Laos is less populated, with 6.4 Millions. By comparison, the city state of Singapore counts a population of around 5.2 Millions.
The dominant ethnic group is the Khmer, about 85 % of the population. The remaining groups are mostly Vietnamese, along with around 100,000 ethnic Chinese, and some 100,000 Khmer-Islam of the Cham ethnic group descendants. A number of primitive tribes make the remainder.
The Vietnamese presently still count for more than 5 %, maybe even as much as 10 % of the population. During the reign of the Khmer Rouge a large portion of Cambodia's Vietnamese population fled to Vietnam but returned after the Vietnamese military invasion in 1979, along with further Vietnamese immigrants.
Compared to the ethnic Vietnamese the ethnic Chinese are better integrated into the Khmer population and society.
The number of remaining Chams is also around 100,000 (before Pol Pot's rule there had been twice as many). The Chams had for several centuries settled in the territory north of Phnom Penh but originally they were from the Danang area in present-day Vietnam. Until the 15th century the Kingdom of Champa, centered near present-day Danang, ruled the trade route between China and Southeast Asia. Subsequently, the Chams were pushed farther and farther to the South and West by the more numerous Vietnamese (Anmamese). During the time of the decline of the realm of Angkor they settled in the territory of present-day Cambodia.
In the 17th century, after the Khmer King Ang Chan converted to Islam and invited Malay Muslims into Cambodia, most Cham embraced Islam. The influence of Malay Muslims can be recognized today in many Cham customs, including in the way they dress. Today, their descendants are known as “Khmer-Islam”.
Only small numbers of ethnic Thais and Laotians live in Cambodia today. Their settlement areas are restricted to the western Cambodian town of Battambang and the respective border areas. One reason for the low penetration of Cambodia from these two neighbouring countries is the topography of the border regions with Thailand and Laos. While there are no natural boundaries between Cambodia and South Vietnam (the region is one geographic entity) the borders with Laos and Thailand clearly follow the mountain ranges.
Statistical Details
After 25 years of civil war Cambodia's number of illiterates was among the highest worldwide. According to a report in Asiaweek back in July 6, 1994, about 65 % of the Cambodian population above the age of 15 can neither read nor write, however Cambodia youth nowadays are embracing higher education with the large numbers of private schools and university being built throughout the urban areas in the Kingdom, and with the development of new technology and internet access available throughout the mobile phone systems with more than 10 operators.
Higher percentages of illiterates in Asia are only found in Afghanistan (more than 70 %) and in Nepal (almost 75 %). By comparison, in Thailand the number of illiterates above the age of 15 is 7 %, in Vietnam 12 %.
Infant mortality (death within the first year of life) in Cambodia is 111 per 1,000 live births, only surpassed by Bhutan (129) and Afghanistan (164). In Thailand it is only 26, in Vietnam 37, in Germany at 6 and in Japan at 4.
The average life expectancy in Cambodia has subsequently risen from 51 years to 63 years over the past 15 years (source World Bank 2010) due to improved living conditions, public health system and economical growth. In Asia it is lower only in Afghanistan (43 years). In Thailand it is 69 years, in Vietnam 64, in Germany 76 and in Japan 79 years.
In Cambodia there is one physician per 16,365 people. Only Nepal is worse off with 16,830 people per doctor. In Thailand there is one doctor per 4,361 people, in Vietnam per 2,857. In Germany there is one physician per 333 people, in Italy even per 210 people.
Cambodia is no lack of telephones nowadays as there are about ten mobile phone operators fighting for customers, and the Internet access is readily available throughout the country.
The dominant ethnic group is the Khmer, about 85 % of the population. The remaining groups are mostly Vietnamese, along with around 100,000 ethnic Chinese, and some 100,000 Khmer-Islam of the Cham ethnic group descendants. A number of primitive tribes make the remainder.
The Vietnamese presently still count for more than 5 %, maybe even as much as 10 % of the population. During the reign of the Khmer Rouge a large portion of Cambodia's Vietnamese population fled to Vietnam but returned after the Vietnamese military invasion in 1979, along with further Vietnamese immigrants.
Compared to the ethnic Vietnamese the ethnic Chinese are better integrated into the Khmer population and society.
The number of remaining Chams is also around 100,000 (before Pol Pot's rule there had been twice as many). The Chams had for several centuries settled in the territory north of Phnom Penh but originally they were from the Danang area in present-day Vietnam. Until the 15th century the Kingdom of Champa, centered near present-day Danang, ruled the trade route between China and Southeast Asia. Subsequently, the Chams were pushed farther and farther to the South and West by the more numerous Vietnamese (Anmamese). During the time of the decline of the realm of Angkor they settled in the territory of present-day Cambodia.
In the 17th century, after the Khmer King Ang Chan converted to Islam and invited Malay Muslims into Cambodia, most Cham embraced Islam. The influence of Malay Muslims can be recognized today in many Cham customs, including in the way they dress. Today, their descendants are known as “Khmer-Islam”.
Only small numbers of ethnic Thais and Laotians live in Cambodia today. Their settlement areas are restricted to the western Cambodian town of Battambang and the respective border areas. One reason for the low penetration of Cambodia from these two neighbouring countries is the topography of the border regions with Thailand and Laos. While there are no natural boundaries between Cambodia and South Vietnam (the region is one geographic entity) the borders with Laos and Thailand clearly follow the mountain ranges.
Statistical Details
After 25 years of civil war Cambodia's number of illiterates was among the highest worldwide. According to a report in Asiaweek back in July 6, 1994, about 65 % of the Cambodian population above the age of 15 can neither read nor write, however Cambodia youth nowadays are embracing higher education with the large numbers of private schools and university being built throughout the urban areas in the Kingdom, and with the development of new technology and internet access available throughout the mobile phone systems with more than 10 operators.
Higher percentages of illiterates in Asia are only found in Afghanistan (more than 70 %) and in Nepal (almost 75 %). By comparison, in Thailand the number of illiterates above the age of 15 is 7 %, in Vietnam 12 %.
Infant mortality (death within the first year of life) in Cambodia is 111 per 1,000 live births, only surpassed by Bhutan (129) and Afghanistan (164). In Thailand it is only 26, in Vietnam 37, in Germany at 6 and in Japan at 4.
The average life expectancy in Cambodia has subsequently risen from 51 years to 63 years over the past 15 years (source World Bank 2010) due to improved living conditions, public health system and economical growth. In Asia it is lower only in Afghanistan (43 years). In Thailand it is 69 years, in Vietnam 64, in Germany 76 and in Japan 79 years.
In Cambodia there is one physician per 16,365 people. Only Nepal is worse off with 16,830 people per doctor. In Thailand there is one doctor per 4,361 people, in Vietnam per 2,857. In Germany there is one physician per 333 people, in Italy even per 210 people.
Cambodia is no lack of telephones nowadays as there are about ten mobile phone operators fighting for customers, and the Internet access is readily available throughout the country.
Economy of Cambodia
The Economy of Cambodia has seen rapid economic progress in the last decade. Per capita income, although rapidly increasing, is low compared with most neighbouring countries. The main domestic activity on which most rural households depend is agriculture and its related sub-sectors. Manufacturing output is varied but is not very extensive and is mostly conducted on a small-scale and informal basis. The service sector is heavily concentrated in trading activities and catering-related services. Cambodia has reported that oil and natural gas reserves have been found off-shore.
During 1995, the government implemented firm stabilization policies under difficult circumstances. Overall, macroeconomic performance was good. Growth in 1995 was estimated at 7% because of improved agricultural production rice in particular. Strong growth in construction and services continued. Inflation dropped from 26% in 1994 to only 6% in 1995. Imports increased as a result of the availability of external financing. Exports also increased, due to an increase in log exports. With regard to the budget, both the current and overall deficits were lower than originally targeted.
After four years of solid macroeconomic performance, Cambodia's economy slowed dramatically in 1997-98 due to the regional economic crisis, civil violence, and political infighting. Foreign investment and tourism fell off. Also, in 1998 the main harvest was hit by drought. But in 1999, the first full year of peace in 30 years, progress was made on economic reforms and growth resumed at 4%. The long-term development of the economy after decades of war remains a daunting challenge. The population lacks education and productive skills, particularly in the poverty-ridden countryside which suffers from an almost total lack of basic infrastructure, though many roads and bridges have been built, thus resulting in much improved communication systems and economical exchanges within the country over the past 5 years. On the brighter side as well, the government is addressing these issues with assistance from bilateral and multilateral donors.
Cambodia also owns large forests of the most precious woods and the most productive gem mines of the world (except diamonds). Much of the country is a fertile plain nurtured by one of the most powerful rivers of Asia, the Mekong. Tourism is on the rise with improved roads and expanding air-links in and out of the Kingdom and more airlines serving the three international airports. Nowadays, Cambodia is on the right path of becoming a “small tiger” within ASEAN countries as Cambodia is also at the helm of ASEAN this year 2012. Its preconditions are several times better than those of Ethiopia, Turkey, Peru, Egypt, Afghanistan or Iraq. Over the past decade of political stability, the economic growth potential could almost be in the process of being realized with a near two-digit annual growth rate.
During 1995, the government implemented firm stabilization policies under difficult circumstances. Overall, macroeconomic performance was good. Growth in 1995 was estimated at 7% because of improved agricultural production rice in particular. Strong growth in construction and services continued. Inflation dropped from 26% in 1994 to only 6% in 1995. Imports increased as a result of the availability of external financing. Exports also increased, due to an increase in log exports. With regard to the budget, both the current and overall deficits were lower than originally targeted.
After four years of solid macroeconomic performance, Cambodia's economy slowed dramatically in 1997-98 due to the regional economic crisis, civil violence, and political infighting. Foreign investment and tourism fell off. Also, in 1998 the main harvest was hit by drought. But in 1999, the first full year of peace in 30 years, progress was made on economic reforms and growth resumed at 4%. The long-term development of the economy after decades of war remains a daunting challenge. The population lacks education and productive skills, particularly in the poverty-ridden countryside which suffers from an almost total lack of basic infrastructure, though many roads and bridges have been built, thus resulting in much improved communication systems and economical exchanges within the country over the past 5 years. On the brighter side as well, the government is addressing these issues with assistance from bilateral and multilateral donors.
Cambodia also owns large forests of the most precious woods and the most productive gem mines of the world (except diamonds). Much of the country is a fertile plain nurtured by one of the most powerful rivers of Asia, the Mekong. Tourism is on the rise with improved roads and expanding air-links in and out of the Kingdom and more airlines serving the three international airports. Nowadays, Cambodia is on the right path of becoming a “small tiger” within ASEAN countries as Cambodia is also at the helm of ASEAN this year 2012. Its preconditions are several times better than those of Ethiopia, Turkey, Peru, Egypt, Afghanistan or Iraq. Over the past decade of political stability, the economic growth potential could almost be in the process of being realized with a near two-digit annual growth rate.
Entry Regulations
Cambodian entry regulations have recently changed. For nationals from many selected countries, it is easy to get a visa upon arrival for the price of 20 US dollars. Meanwhile for some other countries, it is necessary to get a visa at a Cambodian embassy before travelling to Cambodia and for all nationals, the passport must have a validity date no less than 6 months after the date of departure from Cambodia. Visas are obtained easiest in Bangkok, either directly at the embassy or through a tour operator or travel agency. The cost for a visa is 20 or 30 US dollars. There seems to be different prices in different countries. There are now several overland routes open to foreign visitors. The earliest land crossing open to foreign visitors has been on the road between Saigon and Phnom Penh. Meanwhile, it has become legal to enter Cambodia overland from Thailand as well. The standard route is via Aranyaprathet (Thailand) and Poipet (Cambodia) with more overland border crossing now accessible from Northern Cambodia and from Laos.
Currency
The currency of Cambodia is ... the US Dollar. Of course, this is not officially so. But in fact it is so at least in Phnom Penh and in Siem Reap/Angkor as almost all goods and services are calculated and paid for in the US currency. But there is a national currency, even though you may not use it at all during stays in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap/Angkor. The national currency is the Riel and there are bank notes of 100, 200, 500, 1000, 2000, 5000, 10000, 20000, 50000 and 100000 Riel.
Usually, only the small notes of this currency are used instead of US Cents. You will pay, for instance, the drivers of Rickshaws (called "Cyclo") or motorcycle taxis or “Remorks” (a Cambodian version of the Thai Tuk-tuk) in Riel (from 2,000 to over 5,000 Riel per trip depending on the distance), or the baguette at the local bakery (2000 to 4000 Riel per loaf).
Exchange
For travelers to Cambodia carrying US Dollars, in small as well as large denominations, there is no need to exchange currency at any time. You automatically acquire possession of Riel when paying in US Dollars and receiving the change below one Dollar in Riel.
For a marginally better rate, Dollars can be exchange into Riel at sidewalk money changers rather than at the Airport or at Hotels.
Currencies other than US Dollars can be exchanged at the banks, but do not expect the Euro to be widely accepted. It is recommended to bring a sufficient amount of US Dollars for the entire duration of your stay. Banks are usually open Monday to Friday (except on holidays) 8.00 am to 3.30 pm. Some banks also open on Saturdays from 8.00 am to 12.00 pm.
Usually, only the small notes of this currency are used instead of US Cents. You will pay, for instance, the drivers of Rickshaws (called "Cyclo") or motorcycle taxis or “Remorks” (a Cambodian version of the Thai Tuk-tuk) in Riel (from 2,000 to over 5,000 Riel per trip depending on the distance), or the baguette at the local bakery (2000 to 4000 Riel per loaf).
Exchange
For travelers to Cambodia carrying US Dollars, in small as well as large denominations, there is no need to exchange currency at any time. You automatically acquire possession of Riel when paying in US Dollars and receiving the change below one Dollar in Riel.
For a marginally better rate, Dollars can be exchange into Riel at sidewalk money changers rather than at the Airport or at Hotels.
Currencies other than US Dollars can be exchanged at the banks, but do not expect the Euro to be widely accepted. It is recommended to bring a sufficient amount of US Dollars for the entire duration of your stay. Banks are usually open Monday to Friday (except on holidays) 8.00 am to 3.30 pm. Some banks also open on Saturdays from 8.00 am to 12.00 pm.
Celebrations and Holidays
January 1 - International New Year’s Day (national holiday).
January or February - Chinese and Vietnamese New Year; it is celebrated principally by the Chinese and Vietnamese minorities, but is a cause for many shops to be closed. The celebration is flexible in date as it is determined by the lunar calendar.
January or February – Meakh Bochea: Commemoration Day of the last Sermon of the Buddha; date determined by the lunar calendar (national holiday).
January 7 - National holiday in commemoration of the Victory over the Khmer Rouge régime in 1979.
March 8 – International Women's Day; national holiday with parades.
April - Chaul Chhnam; traditional Cambodian New Year, equaling Songkran in Thailand; the celebrations last for three days during which Cambodians don their best attires and thronged pagodas and temples with offerings; contrarily to Thai and Lao people, Cambodian do not douse each other liberally with water but play traditional and ancient games instead along with traditional dances; exact date determined by the lunar calendar, and usually falls around April-13th (3-day national holidays).
May 1 - International Labour Day (national holiday).
May (dates depending on lunar calendar) - Visakh Bochea: commemoration of the Birth, the Enlightenment and the Entering into the Nirvana of the Buddha; exact date to be determined by the lunar calendar (national holiday).
May 13/14/15 – Birthday of His Majesty King Norodom Sihamoni of Cambodia (3-day national holidays).
May (dates depending on lunar calendar) - Royal Ploughing Ceremony
Two sacred oxen plough furrows to mark the beginning of Cambodia's rainy rice growing season during the Royal Ploughing Ceremony. This ancient royal rite takes place in the middle of May, and Cambodians believe the food the oxen eat following their ploughing predicts how well the season's crops will grow.
June 1 – International Children’s Day (national holiday).
June 18 - Birthday of Her Majesty Queen Mother Norodom Monineath Sihanouk of Cambodia (national holiday).
July or August - beginning of the Buddhist Lent; the exact date depends on the lunar calendar. The day is preferred by Cambodian and Buddhist men of neighboring countries for becoming monks, mostly on a temporary basis.
September or October - the day of the final celebrations of the Buddhist Lent; exact date determined by the lunar calendar.
September or October- Pchum Ben; a kind of Cambodian All-Saints-Day in commemoration of the spirits of the dead and ancestors; exact dates determined by the lunar calendar (3-day national holiday).
September 24 – Cambodian Constitution Day in commemoration of the 1993 Constitution put into use, restoring the Constitutional Monarchy and the Royal Government of Cambodia institutions (national holiday).
October 29 – Commemoration of the Coronation Day of His Majesty King Norodom Sihanouk of Cambodia (national holiday).
October 31 - Birthday of His Majesty King Father Norodom Sihanouk of Cambodia (national holiday).
October or November - Water Festival; this festival celebrates the reversal of the current of the Tonlé Sap River. The Tonlé Sap River connects the Tonlé Sap Lake and inner sea of sorts with the Mekong right at the confluence of the four arms in Phnom Penh, the Capital City. For most of the time the river flows from Tonlé Sap Lake into the Mekong. However, during the rainy season from about June to October, the Mekong carries a high water level with the combination of the melting of the snow from Tibet Mountain, and in response the Tonlé Sap River flows in reverse direction, from the Mekong back into Tonlé Sap Lake. This causes Tonlé Sap Lake to swell to more than twice its regular size. At the end of the rainy season, when the water level of the Mekong drops again, the current reverts and the added water to Tonlé Sap Lake during the rainy season flows back into the Mekong, signaling the start of the Fishing Season throughout the Kingdom. The Water Festival is celebrated with pump and magnificence in front of the Royal Palace in Phnom Penh with a long tail boat race throughout the 3-day national holidays; exact dates determined by the lunar calendar.
November 9 – Independence Day (national holiday).
December 10 – International Human Rights Day (national holiday).
January or February - Chinese and Vietnamese New Year; it is celebrated principally by the Chinese and Vietnamese minorities, but is a cause for many shops to be closed. The celebration is flexible in date as it is determined by the lunar calendar.
January or February – Meakh Bochea: Commemoration Day of the last Sermon of the Buddha; date determined by the lunar calendar (national holiday).
January 7 - National holiday in commemoration of the Victory over the Khmer Rouge régime in 1979.
March 8 – International Women's Day; national holiday with parades.
April - Chaul Chhnam; traditional Cambodian New Year, equaling Songkran in Thailand; the celebrations last for three days during which Cambodians don their best attires and thronged pagodas and temples with offerings; contrarily to Thai and Lao people, Cambodian do not douse each other liberally with water but play traditional and ancient games instead along with traditional dances; exact date determined by the lunar calendar, and usually falls around April-13th (3-day national holidays).
May 1 - International Labour Day (national holiday).
May (dates depending on lunar calendar) - Visakh Bochea: commemoration of the Birth, the Enlightenment and the Entering into the Nirvana of the Buddha; exact date to be determined by the lunar calendar (national holiday).
May 13/14/15 – Birthday of His Majesty King Norodom Sihamoni of Cambodia (3-day national holidays).
May (dates depending on lunar calendar) - Royal Ploughing Ceremony
Two sacred oxen plough furrows to mark the beginning of Cambodia's rainy rice growing season during the Royal Ploughing Ceremony. This ancient royal rite takes place in the middle of May, and Cambodians believe the food the oxen eat following their ploughing predicts how well the season's crops will grow.
June 1 – International Children’s Day (national holiday).
June 18 - Birthday of Her Majesty Queen Mother Norodom Monineath Sihanouk of Cambodia (national holiday).
July or August - beginning of the Buddhist Lent; the exact date depends on the lunar calendar. The day is preferred by Cambodian and Buddhist men of neighboring countries for becoming monks, mostly on a temporary basis.
September or October - the day of the final celebrations of the Buddhist Lent; exact date determined by the lunar calendar.
September or October- Pchum Ben; a kind of Cambodian All-Saints-Day in commemoration of the spirits of the dead and ancestors; exact dates determined by the lunar calendar (3-day national holiday).
September 24 – Cambodian Constitution Day in commemoration of the 1993 Constitution put into use, restoring the Constitutional Monarchy and the Royal Government of Cambodia institutions (national holiday).
October 29 – Commemoration of the Coronation Day of His Majesty King Norodom Sihanouk of Cambodia (national holiday).
October 31 - Birthday of His Majesty King Father Norodom Sihanouk of Cambodia (national holiday).
October or November - Water Festival; this festival celebrates the reversal of the current of the Tonlé Sap River. The Tonlé Sap River connects the Tonlé Sap Lake and inner sea of sorts with the Mekong right at the confluence of the four arms in Phnom Penh, the Capital City. For most of the time the river flows from Tonlé Sap Lake into the Mekong. However, during the rainy season from about June to October, the Mekong carries a high water level with the combination of the melting of the snow from Tibet Mountain, and in response the Tonlé Sap River flows in reverse direction, from the Mekong back into Tonlé Sap Lake. This causes Tonlé Sap Lake to swell to more than twice its regular size. At the end of the rainy season, when the water level of the Mekong drops again, the current reverts and the added water to Tonlé Sap Lake during the rainy season flows back into the Mekong, signaling the start of the Fishing Season throughout the Kingdom. The Water Festival is celebrated with pump and magnificence in front of the Royal Palace in Phnom Penh with a long tail boat race throughout the 3-day national holidays; exact dates determined by the lunar calendar.
November 9 – Independence Day (national holiday).
December 10 – International Human Rights Day (national holiday).
People of Cambodia
Khmer is both the dominant language and dominant ethnic group in Cambodia. Eighty percent of the more than 14 million people who live in Cambodia identify themselves as Khmer and speak the language. Chinese, Vietnamese, Khmer Loeu, and Cham (or Khmer Islam) are Cambodia's other major ethnic groups.
Although many older Cambodians speak French, the language of Indochina’s former colonists, younger Cambodians have preferred to learn English. No fewer than half of Cambodia's population is under the age of 22, and the population's life expectancy has increased dramatically during the past decade. Although tourism has now become one of Cambodia's main industries, many people in some of the country's more rural areas remain unaccustomed to foreign visitors.
Although many older Cambodians speak French, the language of Indochina’s former colonists, younger Cambodians have preferred to learn English. No fewer than half of Cambodia's population is under the age of 22, and the population's life expectancy has increased dramatically during the past decade. Although tourism has now become one of Cambodia's main industries, many people in some of the country's more rural areas remain unaccustomed to foreign visitors.
People of Cambodia
Khmer is both the dominant language and dominant ethnic group in Cambodia. Eighty percent of the more than 14 million people who live in Cambodia identify themselves as Khmer and speak the language. Chinese, Vietnamese, Khmer Loeu, and Cham (or Khmer Islam) are Cambodia's other major ethnic groups.
Although many older Cambodians speak French, the language of Indochina’s former colonists, younger Cambodians have preferred to learn English. No fewer than half of Cambodia's population is under the age of 22, and the population's life expectancy has increased dramatically during the past decade. Although tourism has now become one of Cambodia's main industries, many people in some of the country's more rural areas remain unaccustomed to foreign visitors.
Although many older Cambodians speak French, the language of Indochina’s former colonists, younger Cambodians have preferred to learn English. No fewer than half of Cambodia's population is under the age of 22, and the population's life expectancy has increased dramatically during the past decade. Although tourism has now become one of Cambodia's main industries, many people in some of the country's more rural areas remain unaccustomed to foreign visitors.
Religion
Angkor Wat may be the world's biggest Hindu temple, but Theravada Buddhism is the preferred religion for 96 percent of Cambodians. Most of the remaining four percent of Cambodia's population embraced Christianity or Islam, and most of Cambodia's Muslims belong to the country's Malay and Cham minority groups.
Cambodia has been a predominantly Buddhist country for nearly 2,000 years, and Theravada Buddhism has been the nation's dominant religion for centuries, except for the years it was banned by the Khmer Rouge. Many of Cambodia's highland tribal groups have their own local spirits and religious beliefs, and most Cambodians believe in their ancestors' guardian spirits along with their official religions.
Cambodia has been a predominantly Buddhist country for nearly 2,000 years, and Theravada Buddhism has been the nation's dominant religion for centuries, except for the years it was banned by the Khmer Rouge. Many of Cambodia's highland tribal groups have their own local spirits and religious beliefs, and most Cambodians believe in their ancestors' guardian spirits along with their official religions.
Historic Facts about Cambodia
Around 4000 B.C. at what today is Samrong Sen at Tonlé Sap Lake a human society developed a remarkable level of civilization. As has been found in excavations, at that time, people already built houses on stilts, just like they still do today at Tonlé Sap Lake.
Angkor
For centuries, the area around the Mekong delta and the Cambodian central plain were ruled by the Kingdom of Java (in today's Indonesia). But in 802, exiled Khmer prince Jayavarman II, who was born and raised at the court of the Javanese Sailendra Dynasty after the fall of Tchen-La Kingdom which Isanapura was the Capital City (currently Sambor Prei Kuk Archaeological Park in Kompong Thom province), declares the areas inhabited by Khmer independent from Java and thus founds the kingdom of Angkor. He is crowned as Devaraja (god king) by a Brahman priest on Phnom Kulen thus making this site the “Sacred Mountain”for the Khmer people. In the following years he moves his capital several times. Initially it was at Indrapura (east of Kampong Cham), then at Wat Phou (in today's southern Laos) and finally at Rolous formerly Hariharalaya (Soth of Angkor).
In 889 Yasovarman I became king of the Khmer. He started the construction of Angkor centered around nowadays-Phnom Bakheng, then named Yasodharapura. Yasovarman I reigned until the year 900.
In 1002 Suryavarman I usurped the throne. Under his rule, the kingdom of Angkor is extended into vast stretches of today's Thailand and Laos.
In 1080, after Angkor had been conquered by the kingdom of Champa, a northern provincial Khmer governor declares himself king, assuming the name Jayavarman VI. He rules the new Khmer kingdom from his northern province.
In 1113 a nephew of Jayavarman VI is crowned king of the Khmer, choosing the new name Suryavarman II. During his long reign Angkor Wat is built.
In 1177 Angkor is again conquered by an army from Champa. Jayavarman VII, a cousin of Suryavarman II, becomes king in 1181 and subsequently conquers Vijaya, the capital of Champa (in today's Central Vietnam).
Under Jayavarman VII the Khmer territory reaches its largest extent ever. It covers practically all of today's Thailand and Laos, and reaches into today's Myanmar, Malaysia and Vietnam. Jayavarman VII converts from Hinduism to Buddhism and makes Buddhism the new state religion.
In 1200 construction of a new royal capital is started Angkor Thom. As this enormous construction depletes the resources of the Khmer realm, it suffers economical problems in the following years along with the lack of maintenance of the vast and expansive irrigation systems.
The following decades see the decline of Angkor. To the West new Thai kingdoms become the dominant political powers; to the East Vietnamese kingdoms rise. As a small buffer state, Cambodia in between the two, the kingdom of the Khmer alternatively depends on the Thais and the Vietnamese. In order to liberate themselves from the yoke of one conqueror they need the help of the other who then demands that the Khmer obey in compensation of their debts.
In 1432, after Thais once more conquered Angkor, the Khmer abandon their capital, leaving it to the jungle.
Colonial Times
On April 17, 1864, after being alternatively controlled by Thailand or Vietnam for more than 400 years, Cambodian King Norodom accepts for his country the status of a French protectorate. King Norodom expects the French to protect Cambodia from the neighbouring countries Siam (Thailand) and Vietnam.
However, the French protectors cannot prevent politically strong Siam from temporarily annexing Western parts of the country, including the town of Battambang, Siem Reap and Sisophon. Nevertheless, by recognizing French rule, King Norodom preempted moves of Siam and Vietnam to entirely divide his country between them. In past centuries the loss of territory to Vietnam had been more significant. The Mekong delta, or rather the entire present-day South Vietnam also known to the Khmer as Kampuchea Krom (Cambodia “down-under”), had been settled by Cambodians until well into the 18th century.
In 1884, with the acknowledgment of King Norodom, Cambodia's status is changed from protectorate to colony. The political influence of the French grows, and together with Vietnam and Laos, Cambodia becomes part of the “Union Indochinoise”. In subsequent decades the French colonial masters install a European administrative system in Cambodia and improve the infrastructure of the country. Nevertheless, the economical development of the French Union Indochinoise does not reach the extent of Burma's or India's development under British rule.
In September 1940, after France is invaded by Germany, Japanese troops occupy Indochina without meeting any resistance.
Officially the word is that the French colonial power leaves all military installation for the Japanese troops to use; in exchange the French colonial administration remains in office. Therefore the years of World War II bring less destruction to Cambodia than, for instance, to the fiercely contested Southeast Asian states of Burma and the Philippines.
In 1941 the French colonial masters proclaim 18-year-old Prince Norodom Sihanouk king of Cambodia, expecting to be able to easily control the politically inexperienced youth.
In March 1945 the Japanese military remove the French colonial administration and force young King Norodom Sihanouk to proclaim the independence of his country.
In East Asia, World War II ends August 14, 1945, with the capitulation of Japan. Subsequently, France tries to reestablish herself as colonial power in Cambodia, Vietnam and Laos.
In 1946 King Norodom Sihanouk demands independence for his country from France. The French colonial masters respond by abolishing the absolute monarchy in Cambodia and by restricting the position of the king to representative status. A national assembly is elected.
In 1952 King Norodom Sihanouk enters self-elected exile, announcing he would return to Cambodia only when the country is independent.
Independence
On November 9, 1953, France releases Cambodia into independence and King Norodom Sihanouk returns.
In 1955, in order to free himself from the restrictions set for the king by the Cambodian constitution, King Norodom Sihanouk abdicates in favour of his father, King Norodom Suramarit, and enters politics. In successive elections, in 1955, 1958, 1962 and 1966, the Sangkum Reastr Niyum party of Prince Norodom Sihanouk wins every seat in parliament.
In March 1969 American planes start bombing Cambodia to interrupt the supply trails of the Vietcong. The bombardments last until 1973.
In 1970, while Prince Norodom Sihanouk is in Moscow on a state visit, Marshal Lon Nol stages a coup d'état in Phnom Penh. Lon Nol abolishes the monarchy and declares Cambodia a republic. Norodom Sihanouk chooses to stay in Peking, presiding over a government in exile. The Khmer Rouge were part of it. During the following years, the Khmer Rouge conquered more and more regions of Cambodia, until finally only Phnom Penh remains under the control of the Lon Nol government.
On April 17, 1975, the Khmer Rouge march into Phnom Penh. Within a few days, they execute a large number of Cambodians formerly connected to the Lon Nol régime. More than 2 Million inhabitants of Phnom Penh are forced out of the city and moved to provincial labour camps. Phnom Penh becomes a ghost town. The economy of the entire country is transformed along radical Communist lines, money is simply abolished. The consequences include famine and epidemics.
Within the following 3 years-8 months-20 days of the darkest days in the history of Cambodia, more than a Million Cambodians fall victim to the Khmer Rouge rule of terror. Refugees who make it to Thailand report atrocities of the worst kind: executions of children, only because they were not born of peasant or city families or of Vietnamese or Chinese origin. Whosoever was suspected of being educated, or to be a member of a merchant family, was murdered: clubbed to death, not shot, in order to save ammunition.
On December 25, 1978, after a series of transgressions at the Cambodian-Vietnamese border, the Vietnamese army invades Cambodia. On January 7, 1979, Vietnamese troops occupy Phnom Penh. A Vietnam-friendly government is installed, Heng Samrin, a Khmer Rouge guerrilla who earlier had fled to Vietnam, is proclaimed president. The new Cambodian government is not recognized by Western countries.
In 1982, three Cambodian resistance groups, the Khmer Rouge, the National Front for an Independent, Neutral, Peaceful and Cooperative Cambodia (FUNCINPEC) of Prince Sihanouk, and the anticommunist Khmer People's National Liberation Front of former PM Son Sann, form a coalition aiming to expel the Vietnamese occupation forces.
In 1989 the Vietnamese troops retreat from Cambodia. On October 23, 1991, the People’s Republic of Kampuchea’s government - previously installed in Phnom Penh by the Vietnamese - together with the resistance coalition, among them the Khmer Rouge, sign a peace treaty in Paris. Three weeks later, on November 14, 1991, Prince Sihanouk returns to Phnom Penh. The population of the capital receives him enthusiastically.
In 1992 the United Nations Transitory Authority in Cambodia (UNTAC) took over the government and the administration of the country. The Khmer Rouge did not adhere to the Paris agreement which stipulates that warring factions lay down their arms.
On May 23, 1993, in elections for a constitutional assembly, supervised by the UN, FUNCINPEC wins 45 % of the votes, the Cambodian People's Party of the government installed by the Vietnamese achieves 38 %. FUNCINPEC and CPP agree to form a coalition government.
Angkor
For centuries, the area around the Mekong delta and the Cambodian central plain were ruled by the Kingdom of Java (in today's Indonesia). But in 802, exiled Khmer prince Jayavarman II, who was born and raised at the court of the Javanese Sailendra Dynasty after the fall of Tchen-La Kingdom which Isanapura was the Capital City (currently Sambor Prei Kuk Archaeological Park in Kompong Thom province), declares the areas inhabited by Khmer independent from Java and thus founds the kingdom of Angkor. He is crowned as Devaraja (god king) by a Brahman priest on Phnom Kulen thus making this site the “Sacred Mountain”for the Khmer people. In the following years he moves his capital several times. Initially it was at Indrapura (east of Kampong Cham), then at Wat Phou (in today's southern Laos) and finally at Rolous formerly Hariharalaya (Soth of Angkor).
In 889 Yasovarman I became king of the Khmer. He started the construction of Angkor centered around nowadays-Phnom Bakheng, then named Yasodharapura. Yasovarman I reigned until the year 900.
In 1002 Suryavarman I usurped the throne. Under his rule, the kingdom of Angkor is extended into vast stretches of today's Thailand and Laos.
In 1080, after Angkor had been conquered by the kingdom of Champa, a northern provincial Khmer governor declares himself king, assuming the name Jayavarman VI. He rules the new Khmer kingdom from his northern province.
In 1113 a nephew of Jayavarman VI is crowned king of the Khmer, choosing the new name Suryavarman II. During his long reign Angkor Wat is built.
In 1177 Angkor is again conquered by an army from Champa. Jayavarman VII, a cousin of Suryavarman II, becomes king in 1181 and subsequently conquers Vijaya, the capital of Champa (in today's Central Vietnam).
Under Jayavarman VII the Khmer territory reaches its largest extent ever. It covers practically all of today's Thailand and Laos, and reaches into today's Myanmar, Malaysia and Vietnam. Jayavarman VII converts from Hinduism to Buddhism and makes Buddhism the new state religion.
In 1200 construction of a new royal capital is started Angkor Thom. As this enormous construction depletes the resources of the Khmer realm, it suffers economical problems in the following years along with the lack of maintenance of the vast and expansive irrigation systems.
The following decades see the decline of Angkor. To the West new Thai kingdoms become the dominant political powers; to the East Vietnamese kingdoms rise. As a small buffer state, Cambodia in between the two, the kingdom of the Khmer alternatively depends on the Thais and the Vietnamese. In order to liberate themselves from the yoke of one conqueror they need the help of the other who then demands that the Khmer obey in compensation of their debts.
In 1432, after Thais once more conquered Angkor, the Khmer abandon their capital, leaving it to the jungle.
Colonial Times
On April 17, 1864, after being alternatively controlled by Thailand or Vietnam for more than 400 years, Cambodian King Norodom accepts for his country the status of a French protectorate. King Norodom expects the French to protect Cambodia from the neighbouring countries Siam (Thailand) and Vietnam.
However, the French protectors cannot prevent politically strong Siam from temporarily annexing Western parts of the country, including the town of Battambang, Siem Reap and Sisophon. Nevertheless, by recognizing French rule, King Norodom preempted moves of Siam and Vietnam to entirely divide his country between them. In past centuries the loss of territory to Vietnam had been more significant. The Mekong delta, or rather the entire present-day South Vietnam also known to the Khmer as Kampuchea Krom (Cambodia “down-under”), had been settled by Cambodians until well into the 18th century.
In 1884, with the acknowledgment of King Norodom, Cambodia's status is changed from protectorate to colony. The political influence of the French grows, and together with Vietnam and Laos, Cambodia becomes part of the “Union Indochinoise”. In subsequent decades the French colonial masters install a European administrative system in Cambodia and improve the infrastructure of the country. Nevertheless, the economical development of the French Union Indochinoise does not reach the extent of Burma's or India's development under British rule.
In September 1940, after France is invaded by Germany, Japanese troops occupy Indochina without meeting any resistance.
Officially the word is that the French colonial power leaves all military installation for the Japanese troops to use; in exchange the French colonial administration remains in office. Therefore the years of World War II bring less destruction to Cambodia than, for instance, to the fiercely contested Southeast Asian states of Burma and the Philippines.
In 1941 the French colonial masters proclaim 18-year-old Prince Norodom Sihanouk king of Cambodia, expecting to be able to easily control the politically inexperienced youth.
In March 1945 the Japanese military remove the French colonial administration and force young King Norodom Sihanouk to proclaim the independence of his country.
In East Asia, World War II ends August 14, 1945, with the capitulation of Japan. Subsequently, France tries to reestablish herself as colonial power in Cambodia, Vietnam and Laos.
In 1946 King Norodom Sihanouk demands independence for his country from France. The French colonial masters respond by abolishing the absolute monarchy in Cambodia and by restricting the position of the king to representative status. A national assembly is elected.
In 1952 King Norodom Sihanouk enters self-elected exile, announcing he would return to Cambodia only when the country is independent.
Independence
On November 9, 1953, France releases Cambodia into independence and King Norodom Sihanouk returns.
In 1955, in order to free himself from the restrictions set for the king by the Cambodian constitution, King Norodom Sihanouk abdicates in favour of his father, King Norodom Suramarit, and enters politics. In successive elections, in 1955, 1958, 1962 and 1966, the Sangkum Reastr Niyum party of Prince Norodom Sihanouk wins every seat in parliament.
In March 1969 American planes start bombing Cambodia to interrupt the supply trails of the Vietcong. The bombardments last until 1973.
In 1970, while Prince Norodom Sihanouk is in Moscow on a state visit, Marshal Lon Nol stages a coup d'état in Phnom Penh. Lon Nol abolishes the monarchy and declares Cambodia a republic. Norodom Sihanouk chooses to stay in Peking, presiding over a government in exile. The Khmer Rouge were part of it. During the following years, the Khmer Rouge conquered more and more regions of Cambodia, until finally only Phnom Penh remains under the control of the Lon Nol government.
On April 17, 1975, the Khmer Rouge march into Phnom Penh. Within a few days, they execute a large number of Cambodians formerly connected to the Lon Nol régime. More than 2 Million inhabitants of Phnom Penh are forced out of the city and moved to provincial labour camps. Phnom Penh becomes a ghost town. The economy of the entire country is transformed along radical Communist lines, money is simply abolished. The consequences include famine and epidemics.
Within the following 3 years-8 months-20 days of the darkest days in the history of Cambodia, more than a Million Cambodians fall victim to the Khmer Rouge rule of terror. Refugees who make it to Thailand report atrocities of the worst kind: executions of children, only because they were not born of peasant or city families or of Vietnamese or Chinese origin. Whosoever was suspected of being educated, or to be a member of a merchant family, was murdered: clubbed to death, not shot, in order to save ammunition.
On December 25, 1978, after a series of transgressions at the Cambodian-Vietnamese border, the Vietnamese army invades Cambodia. On January 7, 1979, Vietnamese troops occupy Phnom Penh. A Vietnam-friendly government is installed, Heng Samrin, a Khmer Rouge guerrilla who earlier had fled to Vietnam, is proclaimed president. The new Cambodian government is not recognized by Western countries.
In 1982, three Cambodian resistance groups, the Khmer Rouge, the National Front for an Independent, Neutral, Peaceful and Cooperative Cambodia (FUNCINPEC) of Prince Sihanouk, and the anticommunist Khmer People's National Liberation Front of former PM Son Sann, form a coalition aiming to expel the Vietnamese occupation forces.
In 1989 the Vietnamese troops retreat from Cambodia. On October 23, 1991, the People’s Republic of Kampuchea’s government - previously installed in Phnom Penh by the Vietnamese - together with the resistance coalition, among them the Khmer Rouge, sign a peace treaty in Paris. Three weeks later, on November 14, 1991, Prince Sihanouk returns to Phnom Penh. The population of the capital receives him enthusiastically.
In 1992 the United Nations Transitory Authority in Cambodia (UNTAC) took over the government and the administration of the country. The Khmer Rouge did not adhere to the Paris agreement which stipulates that warring factions lay down their arms.
On May 23, 1993, in elections for a constitutional assembly, supervised by the UN, FUNCINPEC wins 45 % of the votes, the Cambodian People's Party of the government installed by the Vietnamese achieves 38 %. FUNCINPEC and CPP agree to form a coalition government.