Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
1890
Siam's first railway, run by the Royal State Railway of Siam, connects Bangkok with Ayuthaya. This
is the beginning of what will become the Northern Line.
1893
French blockade the Chao Phraya River over disputed Indochina territory. Bangkok is forced to cede
the territory to France, strengthening French influence in the region.
1902
Siam annexes Yala, Pattani and Narathiwat from the former sultanate of Patani.
1909
Anglo-Siamese Treaty outlines Siam's southern boundary and gives it Yala, Pattani and Narathiwat
from the former Malay sultanate, Pattani. Territories south later become part of the Unfederated
Malay States.
1913
King Vajiravudh requires all citizens to adopt surnames. Before this time most Thais used only a
first name. Each last name is required to be unique to the family.
1916
The first Thai university, Chulalongkorn University, is established by King Vajiravudh. Even today
diplomas are handed out by members of the royal family.
1917
Siam sends troops to join the Allies in WWI in hopes of gaining popularity with the French and
British, thus protecting the country's sovereignty.
1924
Don Muang International Airport (opened as a military base in 1914) welcomes its first commercial
flight, opening up the country to nonmilitary air travel.
1932
Bloodless coup ends absolute monarchy and puts in place a constitutional monarchy. Leaders of the
coup are inspired by democratic ideology learned from studies in Europe.
