Thailand History

By Aleesha.darling

  • Siam joined the allies of World War One

    In 1917 Siam (present day Thailand) joined the allies of World War One. Due to this they are considered a victor of World War One.

  • The first constitution

    In 1932 a revolution was carried out by Khana Ratsudon and his group of military and civilian officials. This resulted in King Prajadhipok granting the first constitution therefore changing Thailand from having an absolute monarchy to a more democratic country.

  • Siam became Thailand

    In 1939 Siam (present day Thailand) changed its name to Thailand.

  • Japan invaded Thailand

    On the 8th of December 1941 Japan’s forces invaded Thailand. Thailand fought well and the Japanese engaged with the Royal Thai Army for a good 6-8 hours before Thailand issued a truce.

  • Thailand signed a military alliance with Japan

    On the 21st of December 1941 Thailand signed a military alliance with Japan stating that they would be allies in World War 2. The alliance had a secret protocol that stated that Japan would help Thailand regain its land that was taken by the English and French.

  • Thailand declared war on the USA

    On the 25th of January 1942 Thailand declared war on the United States of America and the United Nations. They helped ‘assist’ the Japanese on their journey into war but still maintained an anti-Japanese Free Thai Movement.

  • Thailand became a member of the United Nations

    In 1946, following the end of World War Two Thailand became a member of the United Nations.

  • Thailand became a member of the Southeast Asia Treaty Organisation

    In 1954 Thailand became a member of the Southeast Asia Treaty Organisation. The organisation is an anti communist defence organisation that America also joined and gave their support to.

  • The Indian Ocean Tsunami

    In 2004 the Indian Ocean Tsunami struck Thailand. The impact this tsunami had on Thailand was devestating with around several thousand people deceased and others homes and livelihood destroyed.

  • First Female Prime Minister

    In 2011 Thailand welcomed its first ever female prime minister, Yingluck Shinawatra. After winning the majority of the seats in the parliament Yingluck Shinawatra was elected prime minister of Thailand which is a huge milestone for the country.