By Patrick M. Lind
Thailand is an independent nation located in Southeast
Asia bordered by Laos, Myanmar, Cambodia and Malaysia. Thailand is unique in that it has never been occupied by a European colonial power. The late 1980s and early 1990s gave Thailand an economic boost that has carried it into the 21st century as one of foremost emerging economies in Southeast Asia. Along with economic success has come political turmoil. Thailand is ruled by a constitutional monarchy and bicameral legislature, but the future of both are in question.
The King
Thailand's King Bhumibol Adulyadej is currently the longest ruling monarch in the world and in Thailand's history. He has ruled for over half a century.
2001 General Election
The 2001 general election is considered Thailand's most free, open and least corrupt election in the country's history.
2006 Coup d'etat
A military overthrew Thailand's interim government following the 2006 snap election to rectify the corruption of the 2005 general election.
2008-2009 Thai Political Crisis
Thailand is embroiled in an ongoing political crisis with many groups vying for control of Thailand. Violence has often broken out.
2004 Tsunami
Thailand was struck by the tsunami on December 26, 2004 causing over 8,000 deaths, affecting both the tourist and fishing industries.
Tourism Since the Tsunami
The tourist industry in Thailand has since benefited from the tsunami. Many European governments donated money to the rebuilding of tourist infrastructures often popular with European tourists.
About the Author:
Patrick M. Lind has been freelance writing since 2007 and has worked as an editor and journalist for ChicagoSporting.com. He received a Master of Arts in history from the University of Amsterdam in the Netherlands and has traveled extensively throughout the United States, Europe, Asia and Middle East.
