Lan Na and Manipur Kingdoms: Their Histories and Gender Roles
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Abstract
Objectives: This article examines discourse and comprehensively analyzes gender roles of Lan Na Kingdom, Thailand, and Manipur Kingdom, India, within their historical milieu and contextual framework.
Methods: The present study utilized historical and documentary research methodologies, comprehensively analyzing primary sources, secondary sources, and online databases. The data analysis entails using the content analysis approach and presenting the results through a descriptive analysis.
Results: Gender roles are delineated within the spatial context and are formulated through intricate socio-cultural exchanges between individuals of the male and female genders. The research showed that the social and economic environment of the Lan Na and Manipur kingdoms improved and developed women's traits, allowing them to play gender-specific roles in society at the time. The socio-economic and political dynamics were intricately intertwined, fostering an environment where women could actively engage in various roles and contribute to collaborative endeavors alongside their male counterparts. 1) In politics and government, it was noteworthy to observe that the women of Lan Na society assumed gender roles that symbolized their possession of political power. In political engagement, observing the active and influential role that Meitei women had assumed, mainly through their participation in various social movements, was noteworthy. 2) From an economic standpoint, it revealed the active involvement of women in community trade and their significant role in managing familial and communal economies. 3) The socio-cultural aspects under consideration pertain to the traditional societies of Lan Na and Manipur. These societies had fostered a distinct culture centered around the veneration of deities, with the added influence of ancestral spirits. Consequently, this religious framework shaped the gender roles within these communities, explicitly positioning Lan Na women and Meitei women as prominent figures in faith and spiritual leadership. It acknowledged that women were responsible for fostering the profound connection between the sacred and the human realm. Along with their male counterparts, women played a consequential role in the collective advancement of society.
Application of this study: This study provides an opportunity to examine and analyze the correlation between men and women and their gender roles within the historical context and background of the Lan Na and Manipur kingdoms. This study can serve as a valuable tool for studying the discipline of history; the topic of discussion pertains to the field of gender studies and its intersection with area-based studies.
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