The Zote (Zo) are an indigenous tribe, living mostly in the present-day Tonzaang and Tedim townships of Northern Chin State and the Kabaw valley of Western Sagaing division in the Union of Burma. With an estimated population of over 60,000 the Zote are scattered in various parts of Burma and the world. In India, they are officially recognized as the "Zou tribe".

Of the three major races of the Tibeto-Burman group of people – Tet, Pyu and Kanyan - the Zote belong to the Tet group of people and are further sub-grouped under the umbrella name Chin.

The Zote are the original descendants (progeny) of a legendary person named Pu Zo, who is believed to be the elder brother of Pu Zing Phaw (presently known as Kachins). Though living under the present-day military-ruled Burma, the Zote were known to have lived independently and harmoniously since time immemorial.

Due to lack of evidence and difficulties in excavating archaeological remains,  the Zo's origins are difficult to be proved. Though widely believed to have descended from Mongolia, the routes to the present settlements are not clear. It is believed that the Zote have descended from Mongolia to China and to Tibet and to the present day Burma.