The Buffer State of Thailand

A set of vocabulary flashcards covering key concepts related to Thailand's history and avoidance of colonization.

Skilled Diplomacy

The art and practice of conducting negotiations between nations and handling affairs without stirring conflict.

King Narai

Ruled from 1656 to 1688, allowed Dutch trade and French religious missions, and sent diplomatic missions to Europe.

Expulsion of Europeans

The forced removal of most Europeans from Thailand, except for the Dutch, due to the influence of French missionaries.

Bowring Treaty

Signed in 1855, it was an agreement between Siam and Britain that opened Siam to world trade.

Internal Reforms

Changes made during the reigns of King Mongkut and King Chulalongkorn that modernized Siam’s economy and government.

Entente Cordiale

A 1904 agreement between France and Britain that respected Siamese independence.

Adaptation to Western Models

The process of integrating Western education, governance, and technology into Siam's systems under Kings Mongkut and Chulalongkorn.

Monarchical Rule

The system of governance in Thailand, characterized by a hereditary monarch with centralized power.