The Kayah State in Myanmar has had a peaceful relationship with other states since the time of the ancient kings. The Kayah people, also known as the Red Karen or Karenni, live on the southern edge of the Shan Plateau. They are ethnically and linguistically Karen, but maintain their own identity and hereditary leadership. The Kayah people are known for their long-necked women, who wear brass coils around their necks. Traditionally, girls start wearing the coils at age five, and add a coil each year. A fully-grown woman can wear up to 35 rings. Some stories say the practice is to protect against tiger attacks or to ward off unwanted suitors.