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Thailand - It's History (Part 3)
Rattanakosin Period (1782 - the Present)
After Taksin's death, General Chakri founded the Chakri Dynasty as its first ruler, King Buddha Yodfa Chulalok (Rama I), ruling from 1782 to 1809. He shifted the royal capital across the river from Thon Buri to Bangkok.It was Rama 1 that built the Grand Palace. Rama II (1809-1824) continued the restoration and King Nang Klao, Rama III (1824-1851) reopened relations with Western nations and developed trade with China and other countries.
It was King Mongkut, Rama IV, (1851-1868) of "The King and I" fame who concluded treaties with European countries, thereby avoiding colonialization of Thailand, and established modern Thailand.
King Chulalongkorn, Rama V (1869-1910), continuing the tradition set by his father, emphasising on diplomacy. He abolished slavery and improved the administrative system. King Vajiravudh, Rama VI (1910-1925) introduced ompulsory education and other educational reforms.
It was during the reign of King Prajadhipok, (1925-1935), that Thailand changed from an absolute monarchy to a constitutional monarchy. The king abdicated in 1933 and was succeeded by his nephew, King Ananda Mahidol (1935-1946). The country's name was changed from Siam to Thailand with the advent of a democratic government in 1939. The present monarch, King Bhumibol Adulyadej, is King Rama IX of the Chakri Dynasty.
Throughout its 800-year history, Thailand can boast the distinction of being the only country in Southeast Asia never to have been colonized.
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