Montagnard History Part. #1 - Y Phic Hdok

MONTAGNARDS HISTORY

The indigenous inhabitants of the Central Highlands of Vietnam are commonly known as "Montagnard" or Mountain People. Alternative tribal designations for these groups include "Anak Cu Chiang" and "Dega," both of which refer to the "Original People" of the Central Highlands. Our ancestors originally resided on the Vietnamese coastline and subsequently migrated to the Central Highlands, where we established our homes for many centuries. Our tribes speak Mon Khmer and Austronesian (Malayo-Polynesian) languages. The ancient Malay Polynesian groups originated from Polynesia and Indonesia, while the Mon Khmer speaking tribes migrated from Burma (Myanmar).

The Malayo-Polynesian languages are spoken by a variety of tribes, including the Rhade, Jarai, Chru, Rai (Seyu), Roglai, and Hroy. The Bahnar, Rengao, Sedand, Halang, Jeh, Monom, Koho, Chrau, Katu, Phuang, Bru, and Pacoh tribes speak Mon Khmer languages.

Before the year 1800, the tribal peoples of the Central Highlands lived in isolation, experiencing a highland existence under a feudal system of governance. We lived in harmony, preserving our customs, culture, and traditions within a village-centric society. We were separated from the lowland cultures and our spiritual life was grounded in our connection with the natural world, encompassing the rivers, lakes, and forests. The life of the Montagnard "Anak Cu Chiang" peoples was intertwined with nature, including the seasons, family, and village. We relied on crossbows and spears for hunting and horses and elephants for transportation.

The Central Highlands region of Indochina is home to more than 28 distinct tribal groups, with the Bahnar, Jarai, Rhade, Koho, and Mnong tribes being the most prominent. These indigenous peoples have a long and rich history, characterized by a belief in nature spirits and the divine. According to their tradition, the divine force, "Ae Die" or Grandfather Sky/God, permeates all of creation.