History of Thailand is exciting and fascinating. The first Thai state is considered to be the Buddhist kingdom Sukhothai, founded in 1238 by Pho Khun Si Indrathit, following the decline and fall of the Khmer Empire.
A century later, Sukhothai's power was overshadowed by the larger Siamese kingdom Ayutthaya, established in the middle of 14 century. After Ayuthaya's dynasty fell in 1767, Thonburi was the capital of Thailand for a brief period under the King Taksin the Great, until the revolution from 1782.
The current era of Thai history began in 1782 following the establishment of Bangkok as capital of the Chakri dynasty, under king Rama I.
Thailand's contact with various European nations began in the 16 century. Despite to a continued pressure, Thailand is the only southeastern Asian country known in history which was never ruled by a European power. There are two main reasons for this. First, Thailand had a series of very able rulers. Secondly, this country was able to utilize the rivalry and tension between French and British. Still, the Western influence led to reforms in the 19 century.
The revolution from 1932 led Thailand to a constitutional monarchy. Previously named Siam, the country changed its name to Thailand in 1939, back to Siam after World War II, and again to Thailand in 1949. During the World War II it was allied with Japan but after war it became an ally of the United States of America.
Thailand saw a series of military revolutions, but progressed slowly towards democracy...The last sudden coup occurred in September 2006...
Nowadays Thailand is a modern country and its economy grow due to its export of rice and other agricultural products. Other products that are exported and contribute to the country's GDP are tin, textiles, fish products, tapioca, jewelry, gemstones, computer, and electronic appliances. Industries and services contribute 32% and 48% respectively to the country's economy while agriculture contributes around 13%.
Thailand is also known as "Land Of Smiles", so it's no wonder that Thailand is a main travel destination in the world not just due its rich history, but due it's people too. Even the Tourism Authority of Thailand promote the tourism focusing on its people's hospitality...