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500
Evidence of Trade
We see the first evidence of trade in the Khmer Empire when the Khmers trade with the Indians.This would then go on to influence Khmer culture and religion since Hinduism and Buddhism came from the Indians. -
550
First Known Kingdom
The first known kingdom was in the lower Mekong River, Funan, rises and falls. -
Jan 1, 770
One Large Empire
Smaller states of the Khmer region form an empire under the rule of Jayavarman II. These smaller states lasted until 834 CE. -
Jan 1, 1100
Angkor Wat
Angkor Wat's contruction begins. The estimated construction time of the temple is 30 years by King Suryavarman II, dedicated to Vishnu. Today its an iconic figure on Cambodia's history and it appears on their flag. -
Jan 1, 1177
Invasion!
The people of Champa invade the Khmer Empire. They claim much of the empire’s eastern territory. -
Jan 1, 1181
Champs are Defeated
Although the Champs took some of the Khmer empire’s eastern territory, the Khmers fought back and reclaimed their land. Not only did they reclaim what they took before, but they also extended even more taking some of modern day Laos, Thailand and Burma. -
Jan 1, 1243
Religious Orders
After the death of Jayavarman VII he is succeeded by Jayavarman VIII. He renounces Buddhism and orders that buddhist temples and images be destroyed. In doing this, he declares Hinduism as the main religion. -
Jan 1, 1300
Buddhism Once Again Rises to Power
After a short burst of Hinduism, Buddhism once again becomes important. it becomes the main religion in the Khmer Empire. -
Jan 1, 1431
End of the Khmer Empire
The Thai army attacks the Khmer forces. The Khmer King evacuates their people and they escape elsewhere. This marks the end of the Khmer Empire. although the Khmers abandoned the empire, Buddhist Monks cared for Angkor Wat. That is why Angkor Wat is in such good condition. -
The King is Throned
Jayavarman II is officialy throned. He thrones himself as devaraja (the king of the Gods) of the Khmer Empire. -
Buddhism is Important!
The Khmer Empire expands and more room is created. At this point buddhism becomes important.
