by Leonard le Blanc: A most influential “Falang” – Hans Niels Andersen and the East Asiatic Company Ltd.
Several “falangs” can successfully lay a claim to have had a direct, positive impact on Thailand and its rapid development into a modern nation during the 19th century. This group of notables included Dr. Dan Beach Bradley, a noted educator, physician, and missionary; Bernhard Grimm, and his partner, Erwin Muelle, major traders and pharmacists, and […]
by Leonard le Blanc: History of The Democracy Monument, Bangkok
Bangkok’s Democracy Monument was built in 1939 to commemorate the Siamese Revolution of 1932 which established a constitutional monarchy in the kingdom. The imposing statue is situated in the middle of a traffic roundabout where Ratchadamnoen Avenue meets Dinso Road. The monument is located about halfway between the temple of the Golden Mount (Phu Kao […]
by Leonard le Blanc: The History of Chatuchak Weekend Market
The Chatuchak Weekend Market, on Kamphaeng Phet 2 Road, Chatuchak, Bangkok, is the largest market in Thailand. Also known as JJ Market, it has more than 15,000 stalls and 11,505 vendors (2019), divided into 27 sections. Chatuchak Market sells many different kinds of goods, including plants, antiques, consumer electronics, cosmetics, pets, fresh and dry food […]
The History of Victory Monument in Bangkok
Victory Monument in Bangkok was created in 1941 to commemorate the Thai victory over the French during the very short-lived Franco-Thai War. This impressive statue is located in the middle of the traffic roundabout at the intersection of Phahonyothin, Ratchawithi, and Phraya Thai Roads, near Victory Monument BTS station. In 1940 – 41, Thailand was […]