Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
1939
The country's English name is officially changed from Siam to Thailand to align the name more
closely with the majority ethnic group.
1941
Japanese forces enter Thailand during WWII, using the country for access to invade British Malaya
and Burma. Japanese pressure leads to Thailand signing an alliance with Japan.
1945
WWII ends; Thailand cedes seized territory from Laos, Cambodia and Malaysia that it gained from
the French and British during the war.
1946
King Bhumibol Adulyadej (Rama IX) ascends the throne and will become the longest reigning mon-
arch in Thai history; Thailand joins the UN.
1957
Sarit Thanarat leads a coup that introduces military rule, which lasts until 1973. The constitution is
abolished, parliament is dissolved and political parties are banned.
1959
Thailand's first tourism authority is created. The first overseas office opens in New York in 1965 and
a regional office opens in Chiang Mai in 1968.
1965
Thailand hosts and commands US military bases during the Vietnam War under a 'gentlemen's
agreement'. Around 80% of US airstrikes in Northern Vietnam will originate from Thailand.
1968
Thailand is a founding member of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), to promote
regional economic growth, social progress, peace and stability.
1973
Thai students, workers and farmers demonstrate for the reinstallation of a democratic government.
