The history of Thailand dates back many thousands of years to the Paleolithic era. Throughout its tumultuous past, Thailand slowly emerged to become one of the leading economic and cultural centers in Southeast Asia. Also known as "The Kingdom of Thailand," this fascinating country has a story filled with rich tradition, bloody revolutions, religious disagreements, and many other complications. Despite the turbulence, today Thailand is regarded as a popular tourist destination and has achieved a formidable economic and political presence in today's global village.

Sukothai is the namesake of today's Thailand. Originally known as a Buddhist religious territory, the area was once divided in many different kingdoms - including Sukhothai, Lanna, and Lan Chang among others. It was not until the late 1700s that the modern Thailand of today actually emerged from its complex political-geographical origins. When this finally did occur, the city of Bangkok was established as the capital and the first Chakri dynasty was created under King Rama the Great.

During this period in history - which some historians refer to as the Enlightenment or early Modernity - major world powers like France and Britain were working very hard to colonize countries throughout the world in a concerted effort to develop robust empires. Thailand, however, managed to avoid much of the external control exerted on territories in Southeast Asia. With very powerful rulers at its helm, Thailand managed to preserve its independence and identity throughout the many years of aggressive colonization. Meanwhile, Thailand's neighboring countries were slowly absorbed into the empires of Western Civilization.

The 20th century was quite a roller coaster for Thailand as surrounding world events impacted its economy and its people in a variety of ways. With a new constitutional monarchical government established in the early part of the century, Thailand's government structure took on a new identity and the face of the country changed dramatically. Perhaps the last event to have a notable impact on Thailand's course for the 21st century was the well known Asian Financial Crisis, which hit all of Southeast Asia but affected Thaland more than perhaps any other country in its wake.

Today, Thailand is on a strong course for the future. Despite the financial crisis of many years past, the country continues to occupy a leading position in Asia's financial, economic, and political scene. Like any other country in the competitive global village, the future of Thailand will rest upon how well it can adapt to rapid change and constant growth.

Sebastian Harley, Ex Investment Banker has been travelling in Asia for several years, physically been involved in a number of charitable initiatives. Is now investing more time on-line and for a limited period you can get free advertising by visiting his Thailand Cares project at http://www.thailandcares.com