Lan Xang

Glossaries

Term	Definition
Lan Xang	Lan Xang, established in 1353, was a powerful Laotian kingdom known for its cultural wealth and influence across Southeast Asia. The Kingdom of Lan Xang, meaning "kingdom of a million elephants and the white parasol," was established by Fa Ngum in 1353 with the support of the Khmer Empire. Spanning what is now modern-day Laos and surrounding regions, Lan Xang quickly emerged as a major trade hub and a stronghold of Theravada Buddhism, playing a crucial role in the introduction and spread of the religion in the area. The kingdom experienced several prosperous reigns, particularly under King Setthathirath in the 16th century, before splitting into three separate principalities in 1707. These principalities later became French protectorates in the 19th century.

Term

Definition

Lan Xang, established in 1353, was a powerful Laotian kingdom known for its cultural wealth and influence across Southeast Asia.

The Kingdom of Lan Xang, meaning "kingdom of a million elephants and the white parasol," was established by Fa Ngum in 1353 with the support of the Khmer Empire. Spanning what is now modern-day Laos and surrounding regions, Lan Xang quickly emerged as a major trade hub and a stronghold of Theravada Buddhism, playing a crucial role in the introduction and spread of the religion in the area. The kingdom experienced several prosperous reigns, particularly under King Setthathirath in the 16th century, before splitting into three separate principalities in 1707. These principalities later became French protectorates in the 19th century.