Mon State

   One of Burma's 14 states and divisions, with an area of 12,297 square kilometers (4,748 square miles) and a population estimated at 2.5 million in 2000 (1983 census figure: 1,680,157). Ethnically, the population is largely Mon and Burman (Bamar), though there are also Karens (Kayins), Shans, and others. The state capital is Moulmein (Mawlamyine), Burma's third largest city (1996 estimated population: 299,085). It contains two districts (Moulmein and Thaton), subdivided into 10 townships. Mon State came into being with the implementation of the Constitution of 1974, which recognized the separation of Moulmein and Thaton districts from Tenasserim (Tanintharyi) Division and their amalgamation as a separate state.

   The topography is hilly, except on the coast. Mon State is bounded by Karen (Kayin) State on the northeast and east and shares a short international boundary with Thailand to the southeast; to the northwest it touches Pegu (Bago) Division, and to the south, Tenasserim Division. On the west, Mon State's long seacoast is fringed with islands (the largest is Bilu Gyun, or "demons' island," near Moulmein) and fronts the Gulf of Martaban (Mottama). At Moulmein, the Salween (Thanlwin) River runs into the sea.

   Major agricultural products are rice, rubber, sugarcane, and tropical fruits, especially durians. Fisheries are also economically important. The towns of Moulmein, Thaton, and Martaban (Mottama) are important in the maritime history of Burma. In the northern part of the state, Kyaiktiyo Pagoda (the "Golden Rock") is one of the most important sites in Burmese Buddhism.