An Illustrated History Of Thailand

Product Description

This fully illustrated history is divided geographically according to the sequence of succeeding Thai kingdoms. Each section follows a historical chronology, covering accounts of major events during each reign, with an assessment of the character of individual kings & their particular achievements, together with those of other major players. This record of events is blended with descriptive passages about monuments surviving today that are relevant to & help illuminate the history. Political development is thus paralleled by Thailand`s cultural development, especially in relation to the religious & royal architecture. Thailand`s historical progression has been complex, & although the foundations of national identity
- religion & monarchy in particular
- were established in the earliest days of statehood dating back to the 13th century, it is only in comparatively recent times that all elements
- social, political, cultural & linguistic -have cohered into what is recognizable today as Thai & Thail&. By linking the text to existing landmarks the history provides both an enjoyable read in its own right & a fascinating guide to the monuments & buildings that visitors can see on their travels around the country.