Around The World
Thailand Timeline
Travel through our timeline of major events in Thailand's history.
1000-1099
Thais begin moving from southern China into what is now Thailand.1350
A unified Thai kingdom is established under the rule of King Ramathibodi. A series of kings follow, ruling what was then known as Siam.1896
A British-French treaty guarantees independence for the new country.
GETTY IMAGES
1932
A bloodless revolution ends the absolute monarchy. The royal family is replaced by a representational government.1939
Siam officially changes its name to Thailand.1941
Japan invades Thailand in World War II, forcing Thailand to fight with Japan in the war.1944
Thailand takes back a declaration of war against the United States and Britain. After the war, it becomes an ally of the U.S.1946
Thailand becomes the 55th member of the United Nations.1960s-1970s
Thailand is involved in conflicts in the neighboring countries of Cambodia and Vietnam. The U.S. maintains military bases in Thailand during the Vietnam War.1997
A major stock market crash devastates Thailand's economy. The baht, Thailand's unit of money, drops in value.
ROMEO GACAD—GETTY IMAGES
2004
A devastating tsunami strikes. Giant waves hit the western coast and islands of Thailand and 10 other nations, killing hundreds of thousands of people.
AFP/GETTYIMAGES