Who was Plaek Phibunsongkhram and what were his primary roles in Thai history?

Plaek Phibunsongkhram was a prominent Thai military officer and politician who served as the third Prime Minister of Thailand for two significant periods: from 1938 to 1944 and again from 1948 to 1957. He was a key figure in the Khana Ratsadon movement and played a crucial role in the 1932 Siamese revolution that transitioned Thailand from an absolute monarchy to a constitutional monarchy.

What were the specific dates of Plaek Phibunsongkhram's two terms as Prime Minister of Thailand?

Plaek Phibunsongkhram served as Prime Minister of Thailand from December 16, 1938, to August 1, 1944, and then again from April 8, 1948, to September 16, 1957.

What significant political event in 1932 was Plaek Phibunsongkhram involved in?

In 1932, Plaek Phibunsongkhram was a leader within the army wing of the People's Party (Khana Ratsadon). He was instrumental in staging a coup d'état that overthrew Siam's absolute monarchy and established a constitutional monarchy.

How did Phibunsongkhram consolidate his power after becoming Prime Minister in 1938?

After becoming Prime Minister and Commander of the Royal Siamese Army in December 1938, Phibunsongkhram established a de facto military dictatorship. He consolidated his position by rewarding members of his own army clique with influential government roles.

What foreign political ideology influenced Phibunsongkhram's regime, and how was it manifested?

Phibunsongkhram was inspired by the Italian Fascism of Benito Mussolini. This influence was manifested in his adoption of fascist-style propaganda tactics, promotion of nationalism and militarism, and the establishment of a leadership cult, including the adoption of the Roman salute.

What was the 'Thai Cultural Revolution' and what were its main objectives?

The Thai Cultural Revolution was a series of major reforms launched by Phibunsongkhram to accelerate Thailand's modernization and promote Thai nationalism. Its objectives were to uplift the national spirit, instill progressive tendencies, and improve Thailand's international image by projecting it as a civilized and modern nation.

What were some of the key cultural mandates issued during the Thai Cultural Revolution?

The government issued several cultural mandates, encouraging Thais to salute the flag, learn the national anthem, use the standardized Thai language, adopt Western-style attire, and use Western utensils like forks and spoons.

When and why did the country's official English name change from 'Siam' to 'Thailand'?

The country's official English name was changed from 'Siam' to 'Thailand' on June 24, 1939, at the urging of Luang Wichitwathakan. This change was seen as necessary to align with Phibun's nationalist policies, as 'Siam' was an exonym of foreign origin.

What was Phibunsongkhram's stance and actions regarding the Chinese population in Thailand?

Phibunsongkhram's administration encouraged economic nationalism and espoused strong anti-Teochew (a Chinese dialect group) sentiment. Sinophobic policies were implemented to reduce the economic power of this population and promote the purchase of Thai products. Chinese schools and associations were also shut down during his rule.

How did Phibunsongkhram's government navigate the geopolitical situation leading up to World War II?

Phibun exploited the Fall of France and the Japanese invasion of French Indochina to advance Thai interests. He believed Thailand could recover territories ceded by King Rama V due to French weakness. Although initially hesitant, he eventually signed a military alliance with Japan in December 1941 and declared war on Britain and the United States in January 1942.

What was the outcome of the Franco-Thai War (1940-1941) for Thailand?

The Franco-Thai War resulted in Thailand recovering territories in French Indochina that had been ceded by King Rama V. Although Thailand achieved tactical successes, the war led to increased Japanese influence and occupation rights in French Indochina.

What happened to Phibunsongkhram's government in 1944?

In 1944, as World War II progressed and the Japanese faced defeat, the National Assembly ousted Phibunsongkhram as prime minister. This was partly due to his controversial plans to relocate the capital and his alliance with Japan, which was increasingly unpopular.

What were the proposed capital relocation plans that contributed to Phibunsongkhram's downfall in 1944?

Phibunsongkhram's government had plans to relocate the capital from Bangkok to Phetchabun in north-central Thailand, and also to build a 'Buddhist city' in Saraburi. These ambitious projects, announced during a period of economic hardship, alienated many government officials.

What charges was Phibunsongkhram tried for after World War II, and what was the result?

After World War II, Phibunsongkhram was put on trial at the insistence of the Allies for alleged war crimes, primarily for collaborating with the Axis powers. However, he was acquitted, partly due to favorable public opinion which believed he had done his best to protect Thai interests.

How did Phibunsongkhram return to power in 1948?

Phibunsongkhram returned to power after the 1947 Thai coup d'état, which was carried out by the 'Coup Group' controlling the Royal Thai Army. This group forced the sitting prime minister out of office, and Phibun subsequently assumed the position of Prime Minister on April 8, 1948.

What characterized Phibunsongkhram's second premiership in terms of political style and foreign policy?

In his second premiership, Phibunsongkhram abandoned the fascist styling of his first term, promoting a facade of democracy. He aligned Thailand with the anti-communist camp during the Cold War and supported UN actions, notably dispatching troops to the Korean War.

What was the 'Manhattan Rebellion' in 1951?

The Manhattan Rebellion was a coup attempt in June 1951 where Royal Thai Navy officers took Phibunsongkhram hostage aboard the warship 'Sri Ayutthaya'. The rebellion was ultimately suppressed when the navy surrendered after the ship was bombed by the Royal Thai Air Force.

What was the 'Silent Coup' of November 29, 1951?

The Silent Coup was orchestrated by the Coup Group, which reinstated the 1932 Constitution. This effectively abolished the Senate, created a unicameral legislature with both elected and appointed members, and allowed military officers to hold ministerial portfolios alongside their commands.

How did Phibunsongkhram attempt to democratize Thailand in the mid-1950s?

Influenced by his observations of democracy abroad, Phibunsongkhram initiated reforms including the establishment of a 'Speakers' Corner' in Bangkok, allowing new political parties, amnestying opponents, and planning free elections. He also founded his own political party, the Seri Manangkhasila Party.

What significant labor reforms were enacted in January 1957 under Phibunsongkhram?

The Employment Act of January 1957 legalized trade unions, limited weekly working hours, regulated holidays and overtime, and introduced health and safety regulations. It also made International Workers' Day a public holiday.

What led to public opinion turning against Phibunsongkhram in 1957?

Public opinion turned against Phibunsongkhram due to suspicions of fraudulent practices during elections, including intimidation and vote buying. Additionally, critics accused him of disrespecting the Thai monarchy by seeking to limit its power and usurping religious functions traditionally held by the monarch.

Who overthrew Phibunsongkhram in the 1957 coup, and what were the alleged external influences?

Field Marshal Sarit Thanarat, a former subordinate of Phibunsongkhram, led the coup that overthrew him in September 1957. There were rumors that the United States was heavily involved in supporting this coup.

Where did Phibunsongkhram go into exile after being overthrown in 1957?

After the 1957 coup, Phibunsongkhram was forced into exile, initially fleeing to Cambodia. He later settled in Japan after the new regime rejected his requests to return to Thailand.

What was Plaek Phibunsongkhram's birth name and the origin of his given name?

Plaek Phibunsongkhram was born with the given name Plaek on July 14, 1897. The name 'Plaek' means 'strange' or 'weird' in English, given because of his unusual appearance as a child, with ears positioned lower than usual.

What was the ethnic background of Phibunsongkhram's paternal grandfather?

Phibunsongkhram's paternal grandfather was a Chinese immigrant from Guangdong province, of Cantonese descent. However, the family was fully assimilated into Thai society and considered Central Thai people.

When did Plaek Phibunsongkhram receive the noble title 'Luang', and what did it signify?

Plaek Phibunsongkhram received the noble title 'Luang' from King Prajadhipok in 1928 as he rose in rank. This title was a mark of recognition and status within the Siamese system.

What was the significance of the 'man-on-horseback' description applied to Phibun after the 1932 revolution?

The description 'man-on-horseback' referred to Phibun's rapid rise to prominence in the military following the 1932 revolution, suggesting he held significant popular influence and power, potentially capable of dictatorial action.

What was the outcome of the Boworadet Rebellion in 1933?

Phibun and his military allies successfully crushed the Boworadet Rebellion, a royalist revolt led by Prince Boworadet. This victory consolidated the power of the new constitutional government.

How did Phibunsongkhram's government use propaganda, drawing parallels with Italian Fascism?

Phibunsongkhram, admiring Mussolini's Italy, adopted fascist-style propaganda tactics. This included promoting nationalism and militarism, using the Roman salute, displaying his image widely, and broadcasting his quotes, creating a leadership cult alongside Luang Wichitwathakan.

What was the 'Bicycle Blitzkrieg' mentioned in relation to the Japanese invasion of Thailand?

The 'Bicycle Blitzkrieg' refers to the rapid and effective advance of Japanese troops through Malaya during World War II, utilizing bicycles for swift movement. This tactic surprised observers and contributed to the speed of the Japanese campaign.

Why did the United States refuse to declare war on Thailand in World War II?

The United States considered Thailand to be a puppet state of Japan during World War II, which influenced its diplomatic stance. Despite this, the US later blocked British attempts to impose punitive peace terms on Thailand after the Allies' victory.

What was the 'Thai Triumvirate' that dominated politics between 1947 and 1957?

The 'Thai Triumvirate' referred to the influential political alliance of Field Marshal Sarit Thanarat, Police General Phao Siyanon, and Prime Minister Plaek Phibunsongkhram during the period of 1947 to 1957.

What was the purpose of establishing a 'Speakers' Corner' in Bangkok during Phibunsongkhram's second premiership?

Inspired by Hyde Park in London, the 'Speakers' Corner' was established at Sanam Luang in Bangkok to promote freedom of speech and public discourse, reflecting Phibunsongkhram's attempts at democratization during his second term.

What was the significance of Phibunsongkhram's visit to India in 1960?

In 1960, Phibunsongkhram briefly traveled to India to become a monk in a Buddhist temple in Bodhgaya, reflecting a spiritual or personal pursuit following his exile.

What military ranks did Plaek Phibunsongkhram achieve by 1941?

By 1941, Plaek Phibunsongkhram had achieved the highest military ranks in all three branches of the armed forces: Field Marshal in the Army, Admiral of the Fleet in the Navy, and Marshal of the Royal Thai Air Force.

What was the 'Order of the Nine Gems' awarded to Phibunsongkhram?

The 'Order of the Nine Gems' is a Thai royal decoration. Phibunsongkhram was recognized as a Knight of this order in 1941, indicating a high level of honor bestowed by the Thai monarchy.

Which foreign decorations did Phibunsongkhram receive from Nazi Germany and the Kingdom of Italy?

From Nazi Germany, Phibunsongkhram received the Order of the German Red Cross in 1937 and the 1st Class of the Order of the German Eagle in 1939. From the Kingdom of Italy, he received the Knight Grand Cross of the Order of Saints Maurice and Lazarus in 1937 and the Grand Officer of the Order of the Crown of Italy in 1938.

What was Phibunsongkhram's academic rank at Thammasat University?

In 1939, Plaek Phibunsongkhram held the academic rank of Adjunct Professor at Thammasat University.

What was the role of the Khana Ratsadon during Thailand's transition to a constitutional monarchy?

The Khana Ratsadon, or People's Party, was a political organization that Phibunsongkhram was part of. It successfully staged a coup d'état in 1932, ending Siam's absolute monarchy and establishing a constitutional monarchy.

What was the primary purpose of the anti-Teochew policies implemented by Phibunsongkhram's government?

The anti-Teochew policies were designed to reduce the economic influence of the Teochew-Hoklo population in Thailand and to promote economic nationalism by encouraging the purchase of Thai products.

How did Phibunsongkhram's administration handle the mystery surrounding the death of King Rama VIII?

In 1956, both Phibun and his ally Phao Siyanon intended to bring Pridi Banomyong back to Thailand to clear his name regarding the mystery of King Rama VIII's death. However, this plan was disapproved by the US government and subsequently cancelled.

What was the significance of the 'Order of the White Elephant' awarded to Phibunsongkhram?

Phibunsongkhram received the Knight Grand Cordon (Special Class) of the 'Order of the White Elephant' in 1940. This is one of Thailand's highest royal decorations, signifying great honor and service.

What foreign honors did Phibunsongkhram receive from the United States and the United Kingdom?

From the United States, he received the Chief Commander of the Legion of Merit in 1955. From the United Kingdom, he was awarded the Knight Grand Cross of the Order of St Michael and St George in 1939.

What was the outcome of the 'Manhattan Rebellion' for the warship 'Sri Ayutthaya'?

During the Manhattan Rebellion in 1951, the warship 'Sri Ayutthaya', which held the captured Prime Minister Phibunsongkhram, was bombed by the Royal Thai Air Force. This action led to the navy's surrender and the end of the rebellion.

What role did Phibunsongkhram play in the establishment of SEATO in 1954?

In 1954, Phibunsongkhram allied Thailand further with the West in the Cold War by helping to establish the Southeast Asia Treaty Organization (SEATO).

What was the nature of the relationship between Phibunsongkhram and the Thai monarchy during his premierships?

Phibunsongkhram generally sought to limit the role of the monarchy to a constitutional minimum. During his second term, he was criticized for usurping religious functions traditionally held by the monarch, such as leading the 2500th anniversary of Buddhism celebrations instead of King Bhumibol Adulyadej.

What was the total duration of Plaek Phibunsongkhram's time as Prime Minister of Thailand?

Plaek Phibunsongkhram served as Prime Minister of Thailand for a total of fifteen years and one month, making his tenure the longest to date in Thai history.

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Plaek Phibunsongkhram: An Overview

A Defining Figure

Field Marshal Plaek Phibunsongkhram (14 July 1897 – 11 June 1964) served as the third Prime Minister of Thailand for two significant periods: 1938–1944 and 1948–1957. Emerging as a key leader of the Khana Ratsadon movement, Phibun transitioned Thailand from an absolute monarchy to a constitutional one following the 1932 revolution. His tenure was marked by authoritarian rule, fervent Thai nationalism, strategic alliances during World War II, and a complex post-war political landscape.

Enduring Impact

Phibun's influence extended across military, political, and cultural spheres. He implemented sweeping modernization campaigns, including the controversial Thai Cultural Revolution, which standardized the Thai language, promoted Western attire, and officially renamed the country from Siam to Thailand. His leadership navigated Thailand through the turbulent waters of World War II and the Cold War, leaving an indelible mark on the nation's identity and geopolitical standing.

A Lengthy Tenure

With a combined term of over fifteen years, Phibun's premiership remains one of the longest in Thai history. His ability to adapt, consolidate power, and influence national policy underscores his significance as a pivotal, albeit often controversial, figure in 20th-century Thai politics.

Formative Years

Humble Origins

Born Plaek Khittasangkha on 14 July 1897, in Nonthaburi, Siam, Phibun hailed from a family of durian farmers. His given name, meaning "strange" or "weird," reflected his unusual physical characteristics as a child. Despite his family's assimilation into Central Thai culture, his paternal grandfather was a Chinese immigrant from Guangdong.

Military Education

Phibun received his early education in Buddhist temples before entering the Royal Military Academy. Commissioned into the Royal Siamese Army in 1914, he pursued advanced studies in artillery tactics in France following World War I. Upon his return and subsequent rise through the ranks, he was granted the noble title 'Luang' in 1928, becoming known as Luang Phibunsongkhram, a name he later retained as his surname.

Catalyst for Change: The 1932 Revolution

Overthrowing the Monarchy

As a lieutenant colonel and a key member of the Khana Ratsadon (People's Party), Phibun was instrumental in the 1932 coup d'état. This pivotal event ended Siam's absolute monarchy, establishing a constitutional monarchy and introducing a parliamentary system. Phibun's military prowess quickly earned him the moniker "man-on-horseback," signifying his growing influence.

Crushing Dissent

Following the revolution, Phibun and his military allies played a crucial role in suppressing the Boworadet Rebellion, a royalist counter-coup. This action solidified the Khana Ratsadon's control and paved the way for the consolidation of military power within the new political structure.

Dual Premierships: Power and Policy

First Term (1938-1944)

Assuming the premiership in December 1938, Phibun established a de facto military dictatorship. Influenced by European fascist movements, he championed Thai nationalism and implemented a series of cultural mandates aimed at modernizing the nation and strengthening its identity. This era saw the official change of the country's name from Siam to Thailand in 1939.

Nationalist Agenda: Promoted Thai language, Western attire, and nationalistic fervor.
Anti-Chinese Sentiment: Implemented policies to curb the economic influence of the Chinese population.
Name Change: Officially changed the country's name to Thailand in 1939.
Calendar Reform: Shifted the New Year's Day to January 1st.
Franco-Thai War (1940-1941): Exploited French weakness to reclaim territories in Indochina.
WWII Alliance: Aligned Thailand with Imperial Japan following the Japanese invasion in December 1941, declaring war on the US and UK.
Capital Relocation Plans: Proposed moving the capital, contributing to his eventual downfall.

Second Term (1948-1957)

Following a military coup in 1947, Phibun returned to power. This period marked a shift away from overt fascism towards a facade of democracy, aligning Thailand with the anti-communist bloc during the Cold War. Despite modernization efforts and democratic reforms, his second term was characterized by political instability and internal power struggles.

Cold War Alignment: Joined the anti-communist camp and participated in the Korean War under the UN Command.
Anti-Chinese Policies Resumed: Restricted Chinese immigration and economic activities.
Democratic Reforms: Introduced elements like a 'Speakers' Corner', legalized trade unions, and planned elections.
Political Instability: Faced multiple coup attempts, including the Army General Staff Plot (1948), Palace Rebellion (1949), and Manhattan Rebellion (1951).
Power Struggles: Engaged in a complex rivalry with Field Marshal Sarit Thanarat and Police General Phao Siyanon.
Overthrow: Ousted in a coup led by Sarit Thanarat in September 1957 amidst accusations of electoral fraud and disrespect towards the monarchy.

Wartime Leadership and Alliance

Alliance with Japan

During World War II, Phibun's government forged a controversial alliance with Imperial Japan. Following the Japanese invasion of Thailand in December 1941, Phibun agreed to allow Japanese troops passage, leading to a military alliance and a declaration of war against Britain and the United States in January 1942. This decision allowed Thailand to regain territories previously lost to French Indochina.

Downfall and Ouster

As the tide of war turned against Japan, Phibun's government faced increasing internal opposition, partly fueled by the growing strength of the anti-Japanese Free Thai Movement. In 1944, the National Assembly ousted Phibun, ending his first premiership. He was later tried for war crimes but acquitted due to public support, seen as having protected Thai interests during the conflict.

Forging a National Identity

Cultural Revolution

Phibun's administration initiated the "Thai Cultural Revolution," a series of government mandates designed to modernize Thai society and instill a strong sense of national identity. These directives encouraged the adoption of Western-style clothing and dining customs, promoted the standardized Thai language over regional dialects, and mandated the singing of the national anthem and saluting the flag.

Redefining Borders

A key aspect of Phibun's nationalist policy was the revision of national borders. Capitalizing on the weakening French colonial power during World War II, Thailand successfully reclaimed territories in Laos and Cambodia that had been ceded earlier. This territorial expansion was presented as a restoration of historical Thai lands.

Navigating Instability

Coups and Counter-Coups

Phibun's second premiership was marked by significant political turbulence. He faced numerous coup attempts, including the Army General Staff Plot (1948), the Palace Rebellion (1949), and the Manhattan Rebellion (1951). These events highlighted the fragility of his rule and the deep divisions within the military and political elite.

Shifting Alliances

In the post-war era, Phibun aligned Thailand firmly with the United States and the anti-communist bloc, participating in the Korean War. However, internal power dynamics shifted, with factions led by figures like Sarit Thanarat gaining influence. Phibun's attempts at democratization in his later years were ultimately insufficient to maintain his grip on power.

Exile

Facing mounting public opposition due to alleged electoral fraud and growing criticism regarding his relationship with the monarchy, Phibun was overthrown by a military coup led by Sarit Thanarat in September 1957. He subsequently went into exile in Japan, where he died in 1964.

Enduring Legacy

Nation Building

Phibunsongkhram is widely recognized as a key architect of modern Thailand. His nationalist policies fundamentally altered the country's identity, language, and international image. He modernized state institutions and infrastructure, laying groundwork for future development.

Controversial Figure

Despite his contributions to nation-building, Phibun remains a controversial figure. His authoritarian methods, wartime collaboration with Japan, and suppression of dissent cast a long shadow. His legacy is a complex tapestry of modernization, nationalism, and political pragmatism, debated by historians and the Thai public alike.

Distinctions and Honors

Royal and Military Decorations

Field Marshal Plaek Phibunsongkhram received numerous Thai royal decorations and honors throughout his career, reflecting his military rank and service to the nation. These included high honors such as the Order of the Nine Gems and the Order of the White Elephant.

Thai Decorations: Knight of the Order of the Nine Gems, Knight Grand Cordon of the Order of the White Elephant, Knight Grand Cross of the Order of Chula Chom Klao, Bravery Medal, Victory Medals (Franco-Thai War, Pacific War), Safeguarding the Constitution Medal, Dushdi Mala Medal (Arts & Science, Military), Chakra Mala Medal, Royal Cypher Medals (Rama VIII, Rama IX), Coronation Medals (Rama VI, Rama VII), Commemorative Medal for Bangkok's 150th Anniversary.
Foreign Decorations: Included honors from Nazi Germany (Order of the German Eagle), Kingdom of Italy (Order of Saints Maurice and Lazarus, Order of the Crown of Italy), Francoist Spain (Order of Military Merit, Cross of Naval Merit), Philippines (Order of Sikatuna), UK (Order of St Michael and St George), USA (Legion of Merit), France (Legion of Honour), Belgium (Order of Leopold), Netherlands (Order of the Netherlands Lion), Denmark (Order of the Dannebrog), Laos (Order of the Million Elephants and the White Parasol), Cambodia (Royal Order of Cambodia), Greece (Order of George I), Germany (Order of Merit), Burma (Order of Sirisudharma), and Japan (Order of the Rising Sun).

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References

Churchill, Winston S. The Second World War, Vol 3, "The Grand Alliance", p. 548, Cassell & Co. Ltd, 1950

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This page was generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is based on historical data and may not be entirely exhaustive or reflect all nuances of the subject matter.

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Phibunsongkhram: Architect of a Nation

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

Plaek Phibunsongkhram: An Overview ℹ️

🇹🇭 A Defining Figure

⚖️ Enduring Impact

⏳ A Lengthy Tenure

Formative Years 🌱

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Humble Origins

🎓 Military Education

Catalyst for Change: The 1932 Revolution ⚔️

🏛️ Overthrowing the Monarchy

🛡️ Crushing Dissent

Dual Premierships: Power and Policy 👑

🗓️ First Term (1938-1944)

🗓️ Second Term (1948-1957)

Wartime Leadership and Alliance ⚔️

🇯🇵 Alliance with Japan

📉 Downfall and Ouster

Forging a National Identity 📜

🗣️ Cultural Revolution

🗺️ Redefining Borders

Navigating Instability 🌪️

💥 Coups and Counter-Coups

⚖️ Shifting Alliances

➡️ Exile

Enduring Legacy ⭐

🏛️ Nation Building

🤔 Controversial Figure

Distinctions and Honors 🎖️

🏅 Royal and Military Decorations

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

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📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Plaek Phibunsongkhram: An Overview

A Defining Figure

Enduring Impact

A Lengthy Tenure

Formative Years

Humble Origins

Military Education

Catalyst for Change: The 1932 Revolution

Overthrowing the Monarchy

Crushing Dissent

Dual Premierships: Power and Policy

First Term (1938-1944)

Second Term (1948-1957)

Wartime Leadership and Alliance

Alliance with Japan

Downfall and Ouster

Forging a National Identity

Cultural Revolution

Redefining Borders

Navigating Instability

Coups and Counter-Coups

Shifting Alliances

Exile

Enduring Legacy

Nation Building

Controversial Figure

Distinctions and Honors

Royal and Military Decorations

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice