How long did the Rattanakosin Kingdom last?
Rattanakosin Kingdom (1782–1932)
The Rattanakosin Kingdom (, ) is the fourth and present traditional centre of power in the history of Thailand (or Siam). It was founded in 1782 with the establishment of Bangkok as the capital city. The period ended with the Siamese revolution of 1932.
Rattanakosin Kingdom (1782–1932)
Economically, from its foundation, Rattanakosin witnessed the growing role of Chinese merchants, a policy that started with King Taksin, himself the son of a Chinese merchant. Beside merchants, Chinese farmers came to seek fortune in the new kingdom. Rattanakosin's rulers welcomed the Chinese economic stimulus. Some ethnic Chinese merchants became court officials. Chinese culture was accepted and promoted. Many Chinese works were translated by ethnic Chinese court dignitaries. Siam's relationship with the Chinese Empire was strong. Rama I claimed his blood-relation with Taksin, worrying that the Chinese court might reject his approval. The relationship was guaranteed by the tributary missions, continuing until the Rama IV's reign.