MN SR104

Born September 7, 1943, in Xieng Khouang province, Laos, Dr. Yang Dao was the first known Hmong person to earn a doctorate, receiving his PhD in social science from the University of Paris in April 1972.

Served as director of the human resources department for the Royal Lao Government (July 1972 to March 1974) and was appointed to the National Political Consultative Council by King Sisavang Vatthana in April 1974.

Fled Laos after the Pathet Lao communist takeover in May 1975, residing in Thai refugee camps before migrating to France in July 1976, where he taught French language and society in Paris.

Joined the University of Minnesota in 1983 as a Southeast Asia specialist teaching anthropology of Southeast Asia with focus on Hmong history, culture, and traditions; also taught at Hamline University and Metro-State University.

Published 11 major works on Hmong history, culture, and language between 1964 and 2023; served as board member for the first Hmong Public Television program Kev Koom Siab (1991-1995); pioneered modern Hmong songwriting from 1965 to 1980.