The
Pathet Lao (
Lao: , "Lao Nation") was a
communist political movement and
organization in
Laos, formed in the mid-20th century. The group was ultimately successful in assuming political power in 1975, after the
Laotian Civil War. The Pathet Lao were always closely associated with Vietnamese communists. During the civil war, it was effectively organized, equipped and even led by the
army of North Vietnam. They fought against the Anti-Communist Forces in the
Vietnam War.