Hmong
The Hmong or Meo came from the south China and possibly before that from mountains of Central Asia. They are said to be the remnants of a very ancient people who, like the related Yaos, occupied central China before the Chinese arrived. Possessing a patrilienal clan system, they fanned out over centuries into Yunnan, Laos, Vietnam, Thailand and Burma's borderlands. Hmong legend tells of their original home being an icy land and even today they embroider a snowflake motif on their tunics and skirts, although the Hmong in Burma have not seen snow for centuries.
The Hmong live on the highgest mountains in eastern Shan State and near the Thai border, cultivating chilli, corn and opium. The rickest opium farmers take mmore than one wife if they can afford the bride and own enough to support the family.
Hmong women are famous throughout South-east Asia for their exquisite embroidery.
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