The Cultural Identity of Thai-Chinese Residents in San Chao Rong Thong Market

Abstract

Cultural identity generally refers to people’s sense of belonging to a particular culture or group. This study took 381 Thai-Chinese residents from San Chao Rong Thong Market, Wisetchaichan District, Ang Thong Province as an example, aims at analyzing the process of continuation of social and cultural traditions, and studying their pattern of cultural traditions. It was concluded that the rituals of San Chao Rong Thong Market community demonstrate the unique characteristics and identity of Thai-Chinese people, including the concept of rituals, beliefs, forms, and rules of rituals, specific symbols representing ethnic groups, as well as Chinese identity. As an identity of the Chinese society, Guan Yu Shrine displays not only similarities, differences, or outstanding appearance, but also group bonds and power. Aside from having a distinct identity, Thai-Chinese also maintain their traditions firmly and strongly such as the Guan Yu Festival, a tradition that has been practiced for hundreds of years, allowing them to maintain their traditions and pass them on.