Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Early 19th Century
Lured by Phuket's flourishing tin mines, and to escape poverty in their own country,
thousands of Chinese workers immigrated to the island during the early 1800s, es-
tablishing communities and customs that define Phuket to the present day. Chinese
shrines, architecture, and festivals are among the legacies of the era.
1876: Tin Worker Rampage
A group of migrant Chinese tin workers, disgruntled over their wages and difficult
living conditions, instigated a violent uprising on Phuket, causing local residents to
flee to Wat Chalong for protection. The temple's monks sheltered the people and
eventually helped restore calm to the island.
1933: Phuket Province
During the reign of King Rama V (r.1867-1910), Phuket solidified its role as the ad-
ministrative center of the southern provinces. The island was, however, only a rural
subdivision at the time. It became a full province in 1933 after the country shifted
from an absolute monarchy to a parliamentary government.
1970s: Phuket Discovered
Although the island had been a hotbed of international economic activity for cen-
turies, some still claim that Phuket was discovered by Western backpackers in the
1970s. It is true, however, that the revival in travel during this decade led to the first
substantial tourism infrastructure, such as a Club Med resort and regular THAI Air-
ways flights.
