The Lao kingdom of Lan Xang Hom Khao exists as a unified kingdom from 1354-1707.For three and a half centuries, Lan Xang is one of the largest kingdoms in Southeast Asia.

The "million elephants under the white parasol" of the kingdom's name alludes to the power of the kingship and formidable war machine of the early kingdom.

The kingdom is the precursor for the country of Laos and the basis for the national historic and cultural identity.