The Vietnamese are one of the largest ethnic minorities in Cambodia, forming an
estimated 7-9% of the population. Distantly related to the Khmers, both speak a
Mon-Khmer language. However, there’re very few cultural connections between the
two peoples because the early Khmers were influenced by the Indian cultural
sphere while the Vietnamese belong to the Chinese cultural sphere. Ethnic
tensions between the two can be traced to the dark ages of Cambodia (from the
15th to 19th centuries), during which time Vietnam attempted to vassalize
Cambodia. Control over Cambodia during this, its weakest point, fluctuated
between Thailand and Vietnam. Vietnam unlike Thailand, wanted Cambodia to adopt
Vietnamese governmental practices, dress, and language. The Khmers resented and
resisted until they became a French colony.
Modern Vietnamese in Cambodia are mainly descended from settlers who immigrated
in the early 20th century. They no longer speak Vietnamese, creating a social
dilemma. They also have engaged primarily in aquaculture on the southern banks
of the Mekong Delta. Most are assimilated wellinto Khmer society.
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