Crossing Faiths

This book offers an in-depth exploration of the Lahu people's religious and cultural transformations from the late 18th century to the present day. Situated in the mountainous border regions of Southwest China and Southeast Asia, the Lahu have experienced significant religious shifts—adopting  Fu Cu  (Buddha) belief in response to Qing dynasty frontier policies, transitioning to Christianity following the Qing suppression of the  Fu Cu movement, and confronting the atheistic stance of the Communist state post-1949. This study meticulously examines how the Lahu have navigated these changes, integrating external religious and political influences while preserving their cultural identity.