Traces historical background and presents population of the Karen in Thailand. Describes characteristics of the Karen in terms of physical aspect; settlement; language; nature; attitudes toward other tribes; and their values toward family, village administration, and religion. Deals with Karen social structure, noting village matriblineage, and household. Discusses traditions, prohibitions and religion of Skaw Karen, Pwo Karen Red Karen, and Karen in Central Thailand. Explains Karen economy, noting agriculture, land tenure, production, consumption, labor, and statistics. Examines administration, military, and communications with outside world. Considers criteria for giving aids to the Karen, and gives suggestions for the people working with the Karen. [TAIC]