History of the Kingdom of Siam
Remark : Covers Siam’s history up to A.D. 1770, with emphasis on the Ayutthaya Kingdom’s decline.
Key Themes
- Early Kings of Siam — Establishment of dynastic rule and the foundations of Ayutthaya’s power.
- Reign of Chao Narai — A period of prosperity, diplomacy, and French influence, but also intrigue.
- Revolts and Revolutions — The Macassar revolt, the downfall of Constantine Phaulkon, and repeated uprisings in 1760 and 1767.
- Foreign Relations — Tense interactions with French missionaries, traders, and soldiers, culminating in mistrust and expulsion.
- Religious Conflict — Accounts of Christian persecution after French withdrawal, reflecting tensions between local rulers and foreign missionaries.
- Collapse of Ayutthaya — The Burmese invasion of 1767, destruction of the capital, and devastation of Siamese society.
- Commercial Prospects — Turpin speculates on trade opportunities with Siam and neighboring kingdoms.
Table of contents
Translator’s Preface … iv
Chapter I — The First Kings of Siam
Page 1
Chapter II — The Reign of Chao Narai
Page 31
Chapter III — The Revolt of the Macassars
Page 53
Chapter IV — The Revolution that Brought About the Downfall of Faulcon and the French
Page 65
Chapter V — The Breach between the French and the Usurper
Page 89
Chapter VI — The Persecution of the Christians after the Departure of Des Farges
Page 99
Chapter VII — Events Leading up to the Revolution of 1760
Page 109
Chapter VIII — The Revolution of 1760
Page 115
Chapter IX — The Revolution of 1767
Page 137
Chapter X — The Misfortunes of the Europeans after the Revolution
Page 169
Chapter XI — After the Revolution of 1767
Page 176
Chapter XII — Advantages that Might Accrue from Commercial Neighbouring Relations with Siam and the Kingdoms
Page 185
Chapter XIII — Tonkin
Page 220