Known from within the pages of history as the country of “Siam”, the existence of this long-standing nation can be traced as far back as 3000 B.C. to the Mon and Khmer people of Myanmar and Cambodia. In the times to come, both these people would come to influence Thai history in very big ways, as the country moved into the international stage from its humble origins.
Thai History – Nanchao to Ayutthaya Period
This period of history saw the rise of the historic Tai people, believed to be the precursor to the Thai people, having come down from the Altai mountain range. This period covers a thousand years from 650 A.D-1750 A.D, carrying over the Sukhothai period which declared independence in Thailand in the year 1238, into the Ayutthaya period that saw the fall of the Khmer empire in Thailand, and the invasion of Burmese forces.
Thai History – Chakri Period to Modern Day
From the 17th Century, communications with the greater West were established to shore forces against the Chinese and Burmese armies of that time, which also brought about the revolutionization of the Thai economy and introduction to the modern tourist trade. Today, Thailand thrives as a popular place for vacations, such as a lot of Koh Phangan resort properties that one can find while looking.
Thai Religion
The country’s residents are mostly Buddhist, namely Theravada Buddhism. For those unfamiliar, the religion originated in ancient India, was preached by the foremost priest, the Buddha, and speaks of enlightened existences beyond reincarnation and rebirth. The state religion affects daily culture and festivities to an extent, such as the famous Songkran water festival.
Thai Culture
Throughout its history, Thai culture has been influenced by its neighbours India, Cambodia, and others in Southeast Asia. As such, there are several habits not popular in Western spheres, such as bodily respect for the head (as the most sacred point on the body) and the reverse for the feet. Another part of the note is the food culture – blending salty, spicy and bitter tastes into a unique culinary experience that can be found in many hotels within Thailand, such as the Anantara Rasananda Koh Phangan Villas.
