The two essays in this guide are intended to provide Americans with an introduction to the history and culture of the Hmong refugees from Laos. In the first essay, "The Hmongs of Laos: 1896-1978," the following topics are discussed: (1) the Hmongs' history until 1940; (2) the emergence of Hmong leaders during and after World War II and the guerilla army after the takeover by the Pathet Lao; (3) the effects of relocation into new regions and inhospitable climates between 1955 and 1975; (4) the fall of the Royal Lao government and the period between 1972 and 1975; and (5) the problems arising from the flight into Thailand since 1975. In the second essay, a description of Hmong life and culture during the early '50s is provided to give a picture of the life that the older refugees remember. The following subjects are discussed: (1) the origins, history and way of life of the people and the mountainous regions in which they live; (2) their patrilinear clan system, which is the basis for their social organization and is a primary integrating factor in their culture as a whole; (3) their political organization, rooted in respect for the authority of the elders; (4) the economy and division of labor; (5) folklore and beliefs, particularly as these influence their daily life and customs; and (6) their life cycle, that is, family and household beliefs, customs and values. (AMH)