In 1949, the Communists gained control of the Chinese government, winning a long civil war against the Nationalist forces. Since that time, the Man Cao Lan and many other groups have seen great changes in their lifestyles. Attempts are being made by the government to improve their standard of living and bring them into mainstream Chinese culture. The Man Cao Lan live in villages of 20 to 30 houses. At one time, houses were built on stilts, but today most of them are built on the ground.
Most households also have an altar to the family's ancestors.
Prior to the 1949 Communist takeover, land was privately owned. Since 1949, however, all land has been farmed collectively under governmental supervision. Nearly all Man Cao Lan are farmers, wet rice being their most important crop. The land is then cleared and used for cultivating maize, sweet potatoes, beans, peanuts, vegetables, and sesame. Man Cao Lan also raise cattle, chickens, and other poultry, mostly for use in sacrifices.