The kingdom of Laos existed from the 14th to the 18th centuries; then split into three separate kingdoms. In 1893; it became a French protectorate; with the three kingdoms; Luang Prabang; Vientiane and Champasak; uniting to form what is now known as Laos.

The country briefly gained independence in 1945 after Japanese occupation; but returned to French rule until it was granted autonomy in 1949. Laos became independent in 1954; with a constitutional monarchy under King Sisavang Vong. Shortly after independence; a long civil war ended the monarchy; when the Communist Pathet Lao movement came to power in 1975.