His regime was deeply fearful of rebellion and any possible challenge to its program. It kept the people weak, malnourished, and in transit, to prevent the forming of groups that could pose a threat. Estimates vary, but it's believed that close to two million people died. Nearly everyone has terrible stories of loss. Many children have no parents.
Some people are the only survivors of their extended families.
Medieval, barbaric methods of torture and murder were implemented. Human remains from mass graves and killing sites can be found across Cambodia, telling silent stories of the victims. Some skulls are still blindfolded, some crushed. Warped skin and weathered clothing remain on others. There is no need to look for evidence of war.