Thailand is the only country in Southeast Asia that was not colonized by Europeans. King Mongkut signed treaties with the United States and European countries that allowed Thailand to keep its independence. Because of this, Thailand is not as culturally divided as Myanmar. Although there are several different ethnic groups in the country, more than 85% of the people there speak Thai. This longstanding history of being an independent nation has kept Thailand’s national identity strong.
Thailand has continued to keep its political ties to the United States. In fact, during World War II, Thailand joined the United States to stop the Chinese Communist Revolution from expanding to its country. And during the Vietnam War, the United States was allowed to use Thailand as a base to attack the Communist regimes in Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos.
Major Exports of Thailand
Source: Bank of Thailand
Because of Thailand’s ability to work with others, it has a strong economy. For a long time, Thailand was dependent on agriculture, particularly the exportation of rice. However, during the 1960s, the country began to diversify its economy, and today it is known for its textiles, food products, and cement. In addition, some foreign companies have opened factories in Thailand that assemble machinery and goods. This means that manufactured goods now add twice as much to the economy as agriculture products do. In addition, many tourists flock to Thailand, which has caused the transportation industries there to grow. Highways have been built and many international airlines stop in Thailand to bring more travelers to the country.
Choose one reason that does NOT explain Thailand’s good economy.
Thailand did not isolate itself during conflicts; it cooperated with countries like the U.S.
Thailand did not isolate itself during conflicts; it cooperated with countries like the U.S.
Thailand did not isolate itself during conflicts; it cooperated with countries like the U.S.
Which Thai industry is small but still provides an economic boost?
Textiles and apparel account for about 3% of Thai exports. Electronics are a much larger portion of the economy.
Textiles and apparel account for about 3% of Thai exports.
Textiles and apparel account for about 3% of Thai exports. Electronics are a much larger portion of the economy.
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