Japanese invasion of Thailand
The Japanese invasion of Thailand occurred on 8 December 1941. It was briefly fought between the Kingdom of Thailand and the Empire of Japan. Despite fierce fighting in Southern Thailand, the fighting lasted only five hours before ending in a ceasefire. Thailand and Japan then formed an alliance making Thailand part of the Axis alliance until the end of World War II.
Thai Prime Minister Plaek Phibunsongkhram
No. 1 Squadron RAAF Lockheed Hudsons at Kota Bharu in 1941
HTMS Matchanu and Wirun at Kobe Port
Thai Junior Soldiers ("'Yuwachon Thahan"), along with the 38th Infantry Battalion and Provincial Police of Chumphon, fought the Imperial Japanese Army at Tha Nang Sang Bridge, Chumphon Province, on 8 December 1941.
History of Thailand (1932–1973)
The history of Thailand from 1932 to 1973 was dominated by military dictatorships which were in power for much of the period. The main personalities of the period were the dictator Luang Phibunsongkhram, who allied the country with Japan during the Second World War, and the civilian politician Pridi Phanomyong, who founded Thammasat University and was briefly prime minister after the war.
King Prajadhipok signing the Permanent Constitution of Siam on 10 December 1932
Pridi Panomyong, leader of the civilian faction
Major Phibulsonggram, leader of the young army faction
Prince Boworadet, leader of the Rebellion.
