A History of Thailand

A History of Thailand is a comprehensive and engaging account of the country's political, economic, social, and cultural history, from the early settlements to the present day. It explores how colonialism, the expansion of the rice frontier, and immigration transformed a world of mandarin nobles and unfree peasants. The book also examines how the monarchy managed the foundation of a new nation-state and how different groups competed for control throughout the twentieth century.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 356 pages
Publication date: 07 April 2022
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

Since its initial publication in 2005, A History of Thailand has garnered widespread acclaim as an authoritative, engaging, and accessible account of the country's political, economic, social, and cultural history. Spanning from the early settlements in the Chao Phraya basin to the present day, Baker and Phongpaichit meticulously trace the transformative journey of a world dominated by mandarin nobles and unfree peasants, influenced by colonialism, the expansion of the rice frontier, and the influx of traders and laborers from southern China. This comprehensive book delves into the intricate mechanisms through which the monarchy established the foundations of a new nation-state towards the end of the nineteenth century. It also explores the intense competition among urban nationalists, ambitious generals, communist rebels, and business politicians throughout the twentieth century, as they vied for control over Thailand's political landscape. Furthermore, the book comprehensively tracks Thailand's economic developments, globalization, and the emergence of mass society, utilizing popular culture to illustrate and highlight significant social trends. This revised edition incorporates a new chapter that delves into the turbulent politics that have characterized Thailand since 2006, while also incorporating fresh sources and research to enhance its accuracy and depth.

Weight: 582g
Dimension: 153 x 229 x 25 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781009014830
Edition number: 4 Revised edition