Archaelogical findings reveal that Myanmar's history dates back
over 5,000 years ago. Early Myanmars were said to be Mons from Cambodia,
Mongol Burmans from the eastern Himalayas and Thai tribes from northern
The Mons and the Pyu established several kingdoms throughout the
country from the 1st century A.D. to the 10th century A.D. The First
Myanmar Empire in Bagan lasted more than 20 years before the Norman
Conquest of England in 1066. For the next 2 centuries, Myanmar remained
Only in the mid-16th century did the Second Myanmar Empire was founded.
It was during this time that the British moved into Myanmar and
made it into a British colony. Indians and Chinese arrived together
with the British when the country developed into a major rice exporter.
During the Second World War, the Japanese conquered Myanmar. Since
1948, Myanmar has become a sovereign independent state after more
than 100 years under the colonial administration. Despite the government's
failure to improve human rights, Myanmar was enlisted into ASEAN
in July 1997.
Art has always been closely related to religion and royalty in Myanmar's
history. Temples, pagodas and palaces are authentic examples of
its rich tradition of arts and culture, evident throughout Myanmar's
However, art and architecture, which relied on royal support, faded
when the last royal kingdom collapsed. Although court culture is
extinct, the popular street-level culture such as drama, is vibrant
Performances may vary from recounts of Buddhist legends, to the
more light-hearted entertainments involving slapstick comedy, dance,
ensemble singing or giant puppets. Myanmar music, originating from
Siam, is an important part of the shows.