The
PaO are part of the Karen tribal group, which is belongs to the Tibeto-Burman
family. The PaO are also know as Taungthu or Black Karen. Karen are
a large ethnic group present in both Burma and Thailand. The Pho Karen
subgroup includes the Pwo and the PaO. In the Shan state, the PaO -who
are about 600000) are the second most numerous ethnic community after
the Shan themselves. PaO are presents in southern Burma as well (Bago
Yoma range). Around Inlay lake, the PaO are found in especially large
numbers.
PaO clothing is black or dark navy blue with bright seams and colorful
headdress. Near Kakku,
most PaO had headdresses made of towel-like fabric, while those on Inlay
lake had reddish check patterned head wear. Women wear long loose blouses
over a longgyi. These blouses are made of two strips of cloth, folded
in half, with the fold forming the shoulder of the garment. They are
then stitched together, leaving openings for head and arms. Women also
wear a short intricately pieced jacket with a small stand-up collar.
PaO men wear baggy trousers, Chinese style, while their jackets have
a Shan-like design. PaO no longer weave themselves (contrary to other
Karen) but purchase serge cloth. The trade marks are proudly displayed
along the selvedges around the armholes and neck opening ("70000
superfine serge wool" was the most popular when we were there).
Both men and women carry shoulder bags, mostly the very colorful striped
Shan bags.
The PaO have a history of insurgency against the Yangon government.
The first rebel army -PaO Lam Bhu- was set up by U Hla Pe in 1948, and
then other movements were created in 1958 (UNPO) and 1966 (PNLO). After
diverse alliances and divisions, the PNO (PaO National Organization)
was formed in 1976. Its strength was about 500 to 600 men, based in
Kyaungtalong (very close to Kakku). At this time, they used this flag:
