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The capital city of Bangkok presents an intriguing
history and origin that concurs and coincides with the tumultuous
history of Thailand. Bangkok went on to become the capital of the
Thai Kingdom in 1767, during a period when the former capital of
Ayutthaya fell victim to Burmese armies. Before that, it was a small
village full of plum trees, which served as a port for ships
navigating to Ayutthaya. However, prior to Bangkok, it was Thonburi,
a small village on the west coast of Chao Phraya River, which was
chosen as Thailand's new capital.
After the pillage of Ayutthaya by the Burmese, Thai soldiers that
survived their attacks established a military headquarter at
Thonburi and fought with the enemy for 15 long years. Later, when
they emerged victorious, they chose General Taksin as the King.
Before long, he was beheaded and was succeeded by General Chakri,
who ruled under the dynastic name of King Rama I. In 1782, under his
governance, the capital shifted to Bangkok, when Thonburi became
vulnerable to Burmese threat and attack.
Thus, Bangkok gained status of the new capital of Siam Kingdom and
was bequeathed the royal title of 'Krung Thep' (City of Angels).
Chinese merchants, who were the earlier inhabitants, were asked to
evacuate the place and move to the Sampeng area. Thus, the
construction of the city began, starting with Wat Phra Kaew (Temple
of the Emerald Buddha). A huge city wall was erected and numerous
canals, dykes and waterways were built. The Grand Palace - the
imperial residence, along with the Wat Phra Kaew, saw near
completion in 1785.
During the mid-nineteenth century, the city resembled a floating
paradise, with lots of canals, watercourses and bridges. Most people
settled on either side of the Chao Phraya and dwelled on beautiful
floating houses. Nevertheless, during the regime of King Mongkut (Rama
IV) and his son, King Chulalongkorn (Rama V), many roadways and
railways saw construction in Bangkok. The first paved street was
constructed in 1863. During the 19th and 20th centuries, the city
became more advanced and expanded in various directions.
Beginning 20th century, many other developmental projects began in
the city. Rural markets turned into residential areas and the
Memorial Bridge was constructed in 1932, to link Thonburi and
Bangkok. With the Vietnam War, Bangkok grew with a startling pace
and saw a steady economic boom. However, Thailand's coalition with
Japan, during World War II, led to many problems in the country,
including the bombing of Bangkok. Nonetheless, today, Bangkok, with
its urban infrastructure and its traditional heritage of monuments,
palaces and temples, is one of the most developed cities in entire
Southeast Asia.
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