Thailand was known for centuries by outsiders as Siam. It first made a real impression on the
West at the end of the 17th century, through the reports of a series of inquisitive
Frenchmen. They were not the first
Europeans to spend time in the kingdom,
however. The Portuguese sent an envoy
to the capital in 1511, shortly after they
seized Malacca. The Portuguese joined
resident Chinese, Japanese, Malays and
Persians to make the Siamese capital one
of the most cosmopolitan cities in the vast
region now known as Southeast Asia.
Modern and predominantly Buddhist, it is
a Southeast Asian kingdom whose ancient
equilibrium and present standing mingle in
evolving harmony.
Substantially, Thailand’s distinctive and unparalleled characteristics stem from Indian and
Chinese influences (harmoniously blended by Thai eclecticism), rich ethnic diversity,
abundant natural and human resources, and over seven hundred years of cherished
independence (Thailand is the only important Southeast Asian society never to have been
colonized by Westerners). Thailand’s traditional culture is delicately tuned to the
time-honored Buddhist’s non-confrontational approach to life, and ideals of charity,
tolerance and loving-kindness.
Thailand was known for centuries by outsiders as Siam. It first made a real impression on the
West at the end of the 17th century, through the reports of a series of inquisitive
Frenchmen. They were not the first
Europeans to spend time in the kingdom,
however. The Portuguese sent an envoy
to the capital in 1511, shortly after they
seized Malacca. The Portuguese joined
resident Chinese, Japanese, Malays and
Persians to make the Siamese capital one
of the most cosmopolitan cities in the vast
region now known as Southeast Asia.
Modern and predominantly Buddhist, it is
a Southeast Asian kingdom whose ancient
equilibrium and present standing mingle in
evolving harmony. 