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Thailand, formerly called "Siam", is a country
rich in culture and natural beauty. It has been blessed with expansive
natural parks, fertile plains, remote jungles, beaches washed by
turquoise waters, and tropical islands bathed in endless sunshine.
The country has more visible historical evidence of its past cultures
than any other country in Southeast Asia. Its history is very complex,
involving the invasion of many different peoples, the rule of different
kings, the establishment of various kingdoms and the interaction
of diverse cultures. The period of time from the mid 1800's until
now is probably the most important in terms of the formation of
modern day Thailand. King Mongkut, who ruled the country from 1851
to 1868, was a well educated, ex-monk who kept Thailand safe from
European expansion. His son, Chulalongkorn, took over in 1868 and
continued the enlightenment and modernization of Thailand. King
Chulalongkorn made great strides in improving the country, however
he refused to allow his people democratic rights. This finally led
to a takeover by Thai intellectuals, along with military help, in
1932. The name of the country was changed from Siam to Thailand
in 1939 by Prime Minister Phibun Songkhram, mainly because he wanted
to disassociate his country from its erratic past. Translated literally,
Thailand means "Free Land".
The Thai race was previously believed to have originated somewhere
near Mongolia, later moving southward. However, new theories based
on historical discoveries regard the northeastern part of Thailand
as the birthplace of the Thai race. Over the years, the country
has become home to many immigrants. The Thai people have managed
to preserve the traditions of their unique culture, at the same
time absorbing the practices of modern living. Nevertheless, the
combination of cultures and backgrounds of these immigrants make
Thailand an interesting and memorable country to visit.
- Name of country: Thailand
- Former name: Siam
- Capital city: Bangkok
- Area: 517000 sq. km
- Population: 62.2 million approx
- People: Thai, Chinese, Malay.
- Language: Thai
- Religion: Majority Buddhism, a few Muslims.
- Government: Constitutional monarchy
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