History - Russell Family Web Page

Burma again invaded Ayuthaya in 1765 and fought a fierce battle with the Thais for two years before
gaining control of the capital. During the process the Burmese destroyed large numbers of manuscripts,
religious sculptures, and many temples.
The Burmese made no further inroads into Thailand and, in 1769, a new Thai capital was established at
Thonburi, on the banks of the Chao Phraya river opposite Bangkok, by general Phya Taksin. The Thais
quickly regained control of their country and began to further unite the provinces in the north and south of
the country.
The Monarchy
In 1782 king Rama I was crowned. He moved the capital across the river to Bangkok, and ruled as the
first king of the Chakri dynasty. In 1809 Rama II, son of Rama I, took the throne and ruled until 1824. King
Rama III (1824-1851) began to develop trade with China and increase domestic agricultural production.
When king Mongkut (Rama IV) took the throne in 1851 he quickly established diplomatic relations with
European nations, while at the same time astutely avoiding colonisation. He also began a period of trade
reform and modernisation of the Thai education system. His son, King Chulalongkorn (Rama V 1868-
1910), continued this tradition with the modernisation of the legal and administrative systems, and the
construction of railways. During his 15 year reign from 1910 to 1925 king Vajiravudha (Rama VI)
introduced compulsory education and other reforms.
In 1925 the brother of king Vajiravudha, king Prajadhipok (Rama VII 1925-1935) ascended the throne.
Seven years later a group of Thai students living in Paris mounted a successful bloodless coup d'etat
which led to the establishment of a constitutional monarchy similar to that which existed in Britain. A key
military leader in the coup, Phibul Songkhram, took power and maintained control until after the end or
WW II. Rama VIII, Ananda Mahidol, became king in 1935 but was assassinated in rather mysterious
circumstances in 1946. He was succeeded by his younger brother Bhumipol Aduldej who became Rama
IX. His Majesty King Bhumipol Adujdej remains on the throne today, and he commands great respect in
both Thailand and throughout the rest of the world.
Government
Today Thailand has a democratic government led by Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawarta. Many changes
are expected over the next few years now the new constitution has be introduced.
Note: This Government was overthrown by a military coup in September 2006
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