Democratic Kampuchea

Democratic Kampuchea was the name given to Cambodia under  the rule of the Khmer Rouge from 1976 to 1979. Although the Khmer Rouge seized power in April 1975, it was only in early 1976 that the regime officially declared the formation of  Democratic Kampuchea. Led by Pol- Pot, the Khmer Rouge sought to transform Cambodia into a purely agrarian society, aiming to eliminate urban life, private property, and all perceived capitalist and foreign influences.

Upon taking control, the Khmer Rouge immediately evacuated cities, including Phnom Penh, forcing the population into rural labor camps. The regime’s goal was to establish an agrarian utopia, but in doing so, they dismantled institutions like education, religion, and the family unit. Intellectuals, professionals, and anyone linked to the previous government were targeted for execution or forced labor, resulting in widespread suffering and mass deaths.

The Khmer Rouge’s policies led to the deaths of an estimated 1.7 to 2 million Cambodians, nearly a quarter of the population. The regime was overthrown in 1979 by Vietnamese forces, but the effects of this dark chapter in Cambodian history remain profound. This guide will delve into the history of Democratic Kampuchea, its policies, and the enduring legacy of its rule.

Check out the following page for an exhaustive guide to Democratic Kampuchea.