The Role of Yunnan-Chinese Thai People in Ban Therd Thai, Tambol Therd Thai, Amphur Mae Fah Luang, Chiang Rai Province

Abstract

          The purpose of this research was to study the roles of Yunnan-Chinese Thai people in Ban Therd Thai, Tambol Therd Thai, Amphur Mae Fah Luang, Chiang Rai Province. The field study was conducted by using in-depth interviews with 30 Yunnan-Chinese Thai people.

           The research findings reveal that the Yunnan-Chinese Thai people, immigrating to Ban Therd Thai in the past, played a great role in Thai society, because they consolidated themselves for establishing educational institutions in the Ban Therd Thai community. Then, their children and grandchildren had the opportunity for the higher education. Their children and grandchildren were able to study and acquire knowledge comparable to those in the capital's society. Also, they were able to use the knowledge to improve their own quality of life or their career development. In addition, the Yunnan-Chinese Thai people in Ban Therd helped prepare personal resources for the Thai society, such as Chinese language teachers, interpreters, and tour guides, etc.