In 1915–1916 and 1925, Cambodia experienced outbreaks of anti-French peasant protest, in turn peaceful and violent. Colonial taxes remained high, and the impact of the Second World War brought new pressures and new forms of resistance. Vichy French rule, Thailand’s seizure of Cambodia’s northwest provinces, and Japanese military occupation saw the birth and growth of the Khmer Issarak (“Independent Khmer”) movement. After Japan’s surrender, the returning French proved unable to suppress this movement; their attempts drove some of its members into alliance with the neighbouring communist-led Việt Minh.

The Cambodian photojournalist survived and then exposed atrocities under the Khmer Rouge.

Wherever travellers go in Cambodia, certain things will stick in their minds and leave a lasting imprint. Travellers will remember the warm hospitality shown through ever-present Cambodian smiles, the sense of spirituality never far away, and the awe-inspiring architecture of iconic temples. Through it all, in the photographs and in the memories of travellers, there will be the ubiquitous krama.

New research highlights the Khmer Rouge’s terrible legacy.