History of Thailand
Thailand was founded in 1238 in Sukhothai and reached at its summit in the 14th century under the reign of King Ramkhamhaeng before falling under the Kingdom of Ayutthaya. Ayutthaya was destroyed by the Burmese in 1767, but King Taksin founded a new capital at Thonburi.
Chakri Dynasty
King Thaksin was succeeded by General Chakri who shifted across the river to Bangkok and became popular as the founder of the Chakri dynasty that rules the constitution even today.
The Country Siam
The country was officially known as Siam until 1939. It is also the only country that till date has not been taken over by any European colonization. The 1932 revolution that took place here led to a constitutional monarchy.Military Dictatorships
After several military dictatorships and civilian Prime Ministers, Thailand become stable and adopted democracy. The country at this time was presided by King Bhumibol Adulyadej (Rama IX) who is the world's longest reigning monarch.
Thailand's Foreign Trade
This is also the time when the economy boomed through tourism and exports. Trade with neighbouring countries like India, China, Europe and Arabia made Bangkok one of the most vibrant trade centres in Southeast Asia. The Asian Financial crisis hit the Thai Baht for a short time during 1997. However the Baht has regained its strength since then.