Question

Describe the contributions of the Khmer Empire to the culture of Southeast Asia.

Answer 1

The Khmer Empire, or as it officially goes - Angkor Empire, has mainly contributed in the Southeast Asia region in religious and architectural aspects.

The Khmer civilization was the one that introduced the irrigation system in Southeast Asia, and this was of huge importance for the future development of the region.

Beautiful and grandiose buildings and monuments are characteristic for this empire, and they managed to invent new styles and ways of building which changed the way of architecture in the region.

Hinduism and Buddhism were spread in this region by the Khmer Empire, as well as the God Vishnu. This shaped the religious views of the people in the region for the centuries to come.

Answer 2

The Khmers founded a great civilization centered at Angkor that lasted from the A.D. 802 to 1432 in South East Asia. India profoundly influenced major cultural contributions of the empire in South East Asia due to the long-established sea trade routes. The Khmers had a complex irrigation system where they used water canals and waterways for farming and travel which spread to other societies. Dance was also a significant aspect to the Khmers culture where a majority of the dances in the Angkor era were temple dances, performed by vast ensembles of female dancers, linked to a temple. Hinduism and later Buddhism were essential religions in East Asia, mixed with animist and traditional cults where the kings favored Hinduism at first, and Buddhism after that.The Khmer people were also festive people with several celebrations all year round, i.e., horse racing, cockfights, wrestling, and fireworks. Music and dances further became an integral part of their culture with several religious beliefs present.