The Nung have been in Vietnam for at least a millennium. They originated in China.  In 1053 the Nung tribe suffered a massive military defeat. The Nung leader, General Nung Chih Cao, and his descendents fled to Guangning in southern China.  Later, in the 13th century, during the Mongol dynasty  the Tho and later the Nung moved south into Vietnam and Laos.

Perhaps unwisely, the Nung again followed another charismatic military leader in Vietnam.  In the 1860’s they supported Sioung who proclaimed himself a king of the Hmong. Sioung’s armies raided gold from Buddhists temples and seized large tracts of land from other people, especially the Tay.  The Tay were mercilessly slaughtered, and their lands seized.

 

 

     Some of the Nungs continued to migrate south over the last 130 years and many live in the central highlands to this day.  When the communists gained control of China in 1948, over 100,000 Nung in the southern provinces emigrated to South Vietnam .  Later, some also moved south in 1954 when Vietnam was divided.

     Tay are known for being loyal, dependable, and trustworthy.  They have an aptitude for the military and make good soldiers and bodyguards.  They served honorably in this capacity for the French, Americans and the Viet during the numerous wars of the last century and a half.