Thai Women Through the Ages

Thai women are some of the most beautiful women in the world. But it hasn't always been that way. Long ago, Thai woman had short cropped hairstyles, chewed betel nut and were shorter than their modern counterparts. Here are a few images showing the changing styles - and faces - of Thai women.

Wat Phra Kaew

Wat Phra Kaew is Thailand's most famous temple. It houses the legendary Emerald Buddha statue, which was brought from Laos in 1779 by Chao Phraya Chakri (later Rama I). The following images show the Wat Phra Kaew of yesteryear. Visit my other blog, Faraang, for more information on Wat Phra Kaew.

Songkran

Songkran is Thailand's traditional New Year. Nowadays, Thai people celebrate the international New Year, Chinese New Year and Songkran. The festival is one big water fight that is enjoyed by people far and wide. For more detailed information of Songkran, read this article on my other blog, Faraang.The following pictures are from the 1950s Songkran celebrations in Chiang Mai.

Student Protests 14 October 1973

In 1973, Thailand was under a military dictatorship. Disgruntled students staged protests which eventually led to the military opening fire, killing 77 and wounding a further 800. After the protests, the military ruler Marshal Thanom went into exile along with two other senior officers. A civilian government lasted until 1976 when a military counter coup reinstalled the military regime.