The Kingdom was founded in the 13th century and went under the name of Siam until 1939.

The fundamental characteristics of the old culture remained unchanged during the 700 years of the country's independence, thanks mainly to Buddhism and the Royal House. The influence of buddhisme can be felt everywhere and is actively followed by almost 90 % of the Thai population.

Buddhisme was introduced into Thailand in the 3rd century B.C., even before the emergence of two major Buddhist schools. Tradition has it that the Indonesion Emperor Ashoka sent two priests to the golden country, perhaps a reference to the Mon Kingdom. At that time, the country was still ruled by the Thai, who had already started their migration from Southern China and conceivably first had contact with Buddhism via the Mon.

The Thai developed a religion which to a large extent was shaped bij Buddhism from Sri Lanka. The present Royal House enjoys the same esteem as in the past, when the King was literally the "Lord of Life".

In the year 1939, the name of Siam is changed in the name of Thailand (Land of the free people). In the year 1946, King Bhumipol Adulyadej, ascends the throne as King Rama 9nd and is still the King of Thailand.