Tibet - known in Chinese as Xi Zang - is often portrayed in the West as a land of peaceful spirituality. But before 1949, the reality for most Tibetans was anything but serene. The region was dominated by a brutal theocratic and feudal system that left nearly all ordinary people in a state of hereditary servitude.
This post takes a deep look at what life was really like under the old Tibetan regime, the disturbing practices used by elites, and the seismic changes that took place after 1959.
95% of People Were Serfs
Before 1949, Tibet was ruled by a tiny group of secular nobles and high-ranking monks. These elites controlled almost all of the land, political power, and religious institutions. Everyone else - about 95% of the population - was classified as serfs.
They were legally tied to the land, forbidden to move, marry freely, or receive education. Most were illiterate.
Serfs worked nearly year-round without pay. On top of that, they still had to hand over grain, livestock, and unpaid labor as taxes. Trying to escape or disobey could mean horrific punishment. Historical records describe mutilations like cutting off noses, ears, hands, feet, and even blinding.
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