Short History of Siam
In order to understand more about the timeline of Niello production, one needs to understand what was going on politically, both in Siam and the World. As we view into the past hundred and fifty years, we can see Siam begin to open itself up to Western ideas and infrastructure as it moved from an agricultural society to a more industrial one.
By the end of the 20th century Siam had experienced 16 successful military coups, 17 constitutions and 23 prime ministers most of which occurred during Niello production.
- 1902 was the end of King Rama V’s reign. His son Vajiravudh succeded him as Rama VI.
- 1925 saw another change to the ruler of Siam. With the death of King Rama, the Prince Prajadhipok succeeded the throne as Rama VII.
- 1932 brought the Siamese Revolution. The end result was the end of Absolute Monarchy Rule and was replaced with a Constitutional Monarchy.
- 1935 saw the end of rule by King Prajadhipok. He abdicated his thrown. Nine year old Ananda Mahidol was named King Rama VIII. His regents were appointed by Parliament.
- 1939 saw the regime of Luang Phibunsongkram dominate the land. Propaganda was rampant and restrictions were placed on life, religion and art, pushing indigenous cultures aside setting severe limitations on creativity and freedom. Culture and performances were strictly controlled by the state with the goal of creating a national identity and a strong sense of culture. The name of the country was officially changed to Thailand.
- 1941 The Japanese invaded Thailand. It was very short-lived (6-8 hours) before an Armistice was ordered which gave Japan free passage and led quickly to a military alliance between the two countries. It was considered a ‘polite’ occupation by the Japanese.
- 1942 Thailand declares war on Britain and the United States . Interesting enough, the Thai Minister refused to deliver the Thai declara tion of war against the U.S. on grounds that it had been obtained under duress. The United States chose to regard Thailand not as an enemy but as an occupied ally.
- 1945 Prince Phumibol, who had been living in Switzerland returned to Siam to occupy the throne as Rama VIII.
- 1945 post WWII shows Thailand in close alliance with the United Stated and had gained membership to the United Nations.
- 1946 King Rama VIII died from a gunshot wound.
- 1946 – 1949 the name was changed back to Siam.
- 1967 - 1975 Thailand was home to three U.S. Air Force bases. During the Vietnam War, about 80% of all U.S. air strikes over North Vietnam originated from air bases within Thailand.
Thru all the upheaval of the 20th century, Thailand industry not only manages to survive, but to grow.
