Thailand Chulalongkorn Day: October 23, 2009
Every year on 23rd October, Thais take a national holiday to commemorate the death of one of the most revered kings of the past; Chulalongkorn.This is the day when King Chulalongkorn died. He is one of the most important kings in the Thailand’s colorful past.
Thailand’s history of Chulalongkorn Day
King Chulalongkorn (Phra Chulachom Klao Chaoyuhua or RamaV) ascended to the throne at the death of his father, King Mongkut (or Phra Chom Klao). Rama V became king in 1868 at the age of 15. King Chulalongkorn was the fifth monarch of Siam under the House of Chakri.
During his long 42 year rule, Chulalongkorn brought some sweeping changes to Thailand in the 19th century. He incorporated into Thailand the systems he learned from western governments. He also spent this time improving relations between Siam and the major western powers such as France, Britain, USA and Russia. His children also went to be educated in the west.
He is also remembered for bringing Thailand a whole series of modern features such as a railway, and a fully-fledged postal system. He also ruled out slavery.In the fields of health and education, the King also established a variety of public utilities.During the age of colonialism, the King had to adapt his foreign policy to maintain a balance between the opposing powers. Because of Chulalongkon’s significant diplomacy, Thailand was able to remain independent – despite the country ceding part of its territories to France during the final few years of his reign.
His death in 1910 came as an enormous blow to a nation that had looked to him for guidance for so long. As the country’s most beloved king, his reign is still remembered today on 23rd October each year.
Customs, rituals and activities
The day is a national holiday in Thailand and incorporates a number of cultural events. Offerings of flowers are given and put on the King’s statue.Performances and merry-making dedicated to the king.
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