Thailand, Constitutional monarchy in Southeast Asia.
Thailand is a constitutional monarchy in Southeast Asia that stretches from forested mountain ranges in the north through river plains along the Chao Phraya to tropical coasts on the Andaman Sea and the gulf. Limestone formations rise from mangrove forests, while rice terraces shape the hillsides.
The Sukhothai Kingdom emerged in 1238 as the first independent Siamese rule. The Ayutthaya Empire lasted from 1351 to 1767, before Burmese armies destroyed the capital and the Chakri Dynasty founded Bangkok as the new center in 1782.
Buddhism influences the daily rhythm of people, and monks collect alms on the streets each morning. Religious holidays shape the yearly calendar, while classical dance and traditional puppet theater keep old stories alive.
The country divides into 77 provinces with different climate zones. The dry season from November through February brings cooler temperatures between 20 and 30 degrees Celsius (68-86 degrees Fahrenheit), while international airports in Bangkok, Phuket and Chiang Mai connect the country with global destinations.
The country remained independent during European colonization as the only one in Southeast Asia, preserving its sovereignty through diplomatic skills. The name Thailand means Land of the Free, adopted in 1939 to emphasize this historical position.
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