A Generation of Hmong Leaders
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A Generation of Hmong Leaders is a work dedicated to honor the modern era of Hmong leaders for their visionary leadership, shared compassion, and sacrifices that have changed our history and progress.

Hmong history dates back to more than 5,000 years ago in China. It is believed that their innovations and contributed to the development of the country’s civilization; however, due to centuries of Imperial Chinese aggression and colonial controls, many Hmong migrated into Southeast Asia in the 1800s in search of an autonomous life.

They sought for a better future. In the early 1900s, the Hmong of Laos began integrating more into the mainstream Laotian society. Some started serving as local officials. Some prepared their children as future leaders by sending them to schools. Some joined the military. Others stepped up to become clan, village, and regional leaders. Their duties to the country’s military, political, and social affairs had propelled the Hmong people to overcome many challenges while creating new opportunities for them and their children.

Their greatest contribution to the free world came during the Indochina conflict and Secret War (1961-1975), a part of the Vietnam War. As military commanders and strong allies to the French and later to the United States, they defended the country’s democracy and freedom against the spread of communism. As public officials, they ensured that government decisions and policies were upheld to the highest standards and reflected the needs of the people.

After the war, hundreds of thousands of Hmong fled Laos into Thailand—and eventually resettled in the United States and other countries—where many unselfishly continued to serve as community, clan, and spiritual leaders. Their unmatched commitment to charitable causes and public services have paved the way for future generations of Hmong leaders.

This work does not contain all the Hmong leaders - political and military - who have contributed to the betterment of their country and people from Laos to the U.S.