The Phu Tai ethnic group migrated to the northeastern region, especially Kalasin Province, and settled in six districts in the Phu Phan Mountain Range. Due to the suitable conditions for earning a living, a large number of the ethnic group settled there and had a more political role in the region. After the change of government in 1932, the Free Thai Movement was established in the northeastern region, including in Kalasin, and the ethnic group was involved in the movement. From 1952 to 1957 when the Communist Party of Thailand expanded its power to rural areas, a large number of the ethnic group were also members of the party.
It is found from the study that the ethnic group settled in mountain valleys similar to their original homeland in southern China (p.1). Their migration from Laos to Thailand took place in 1826 and they settled in many provinces in the northeastern region, such as Kalasin, Sakon Nakhon, Mukdahan, Nakhon Phanom, Udon Thani, Roi Et, and Ubon Ratchathani. Their settlements are mostly in mountain ranges because they are accustomed to forests and mountains (p. 3).
In Kalasin Province, the ethnic group settled in eight districts, including Kuchi Narai, Khao Wong, Kham Muan, Somdet, Huay Phung, Sahat Sakhan, Kakhu, and Sam Chai (pp. 5-6).
When they were members of the Communist Party of Thailand, everyone had to have their own portable hammocks to sleep in trees or they used leaves or straw as mattresses. If they were stationed at a base, simple makeshift shelters were constructed using available materials, so that they could be easily dismantled (p. 70). After they left the Communist Party, they participated in national development programs and accepted the democratic form of government. Those in Kalasin settled along the mountain range to the north of the city center, because the area was suitable for cultivation (p. 100).
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