HISTORIC TIMELINE

1707Split of Lan Xang

The kingdom of Lan Xang divided into three separate kingdoms: Luang Prabang, Vientiane, and Champasak.

1893French Protection

French Indochina unified the kingdoms of Laos under French protection.

1945First Independence

Laos gained independence from Japan during World War II.

1949Autonomy Achieved

Laos achieved autonomy from France.

1953Full Independence

Laos regained full independence as the Kingdom of Laos under a constitutional monarchy.

1959Civil War Begins

The Laotian Civil War began between the Pathet Lao and the Royal Lao Armed Forces.

1975Lao People's Democratic Republic Established

The Lao People's Democratic Republic was established, marking the end of the Civil War.