In reality, France simply ruled Laos as a colony, even bringing in many Vietnamese to work in its governing.

The transferring of control from one master to another meant that nationalist sentiment did not develop as it did in formerly independent Vietnam.

To counteract this, the French colonial government began promoting the re-emergence of Lao nationalism.

[5] It was chosen as the national anthem in 1945,[1] when the king was forced by the Japanese occupiers to declare Laos independent from French rule.

This new freedom was short-lived, since France quickly regained control of French Indochina after Japan's surrender in 1945.

Resolutely moving forwards, Respecting and increasing the dignity of the Lao people And proclaiming the right to be their own masters.

Bō̜ hai sāt dai mā luān Hā vi hab kuān nyāt nyǣng sing ao Phai khưn khao mā lū vunvāi Su chan tao tāi tān thān sattrū.

Sūay sœ̄t su lư̄at nư̄a sư̄a phao Phư̄n phū kū ao banthao thuk kan.

Once our Laotian race In Asia highly honored stood And at that time the folk Of Laos were united in love

Today they love their race And rally round their chiefs They guard the land and the Religion of their ancestors