The Khmer Rouge

The Khmer Rouge was a communist regime that ruled Cambodia from 1975 to 1979, led by Pol Pot. Aimed at creating a classless, agrarian society, they forcibly emptied cities, abolished money, and targeted perceived enemies, including intellectuals, professionals, and minorities. This radical ideology resulted in widespread famine, forced labor, and mass executions, causing an estimated 1.7 to 2 million deaths—roughly a quarter of Cambodia's population. Their brutal rule ended when Vietnam invaded, establishing a new government. The Khmer Rouge remains infamous for its atrocities and is considered one of the most destructive regimes of the 20th century.