The Mien likely originated from southern China about 2,000 years ago via Hainan, Guangxi and adjoining provinces. They were referred to by the Chinese as "barbarians", which is reflected in their name. These tribal peoples are the only ones to have a written language, Chinese.

These peoples have a series of ancient writings which organize their day to day living and include items such as worship and medicine. A series of pamphlets have been devised over the centuries to help their groups become accustomed to their environment and the people they have lived beside.

The Legend is :
The Emperor Pien Hung of China, was attacked by the very powerful Emperor Kao Want and faced defeat.
The dog, Phan Hu, was able to get through the lines, kill the aggressor, and bring Kao Wang's head back to the Emperor Pien Hung.

Phan Hu was rewarded with one of Pien Hung's daughters as a wife, whom he took up to the mountains to live with him.

They produced 12 children, six boys and six girls, from whom sprung the 12 clans of the Mien as we know them today.

Mien women are skillful embroiderer.
A woman's attire consists of a loose-fitting pant beautifully decorated withfine embroidery works.
Is worn with a long wrapper, of which the front ends are tied at the back of her waist so that a full view of the delicate embroidered designs of the pant can be seen. Along the hem of the wrapper from neck to waist, a string of red knitting wool is worn.
There are also a waistband and a turban.
Mien men usually wear a short shirt and a pair of loose-fitting trouser. The hem and the pocket look beautiful with embroidery works.
As far as the ornaments and accessories are concerned, the Mien are fond of silver products. For example, a round shaped silver necklace with long tails hanging from the back is worn.
Mien's exquisite and meticulous silver craftsmanship is well known among many tribal groups in Thailand.