The Laotian Civil War took place from 1959 to 1975, primarily between the Royal Lao Government and the Pathet Lao, a communist movement. This conflict was part of the larger Cold War struggle, with the United States supporting the royal government and North Vietnam backing the Pathet Lao. The war led to significant destruction and displacement in Laos. As the war progressed, the Pathet Lao gained control over more territory, ultimately leading to the fall of the royal government in 1975. This resulted in the establishment of the Lao People's Democratic Republic, marking the end of the monarchy and the beginning of communist rule in Laos.