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King Chulalongkorn: A Legacy of Reforms and Automobiles in Thailand
On October 23, 2025, Thailand commemorates the important King Chulalongkorn (Rama V), whose reforms shaped the nation.
King Chulalongkorn: A Legacy of Reforms and Automobiles in Thailand
October 23rd is a very special day for Thailand. Twenty-seven years after the death of King Chulalongkorn (Rama V), he is remembered today, a monarch whose legacy continues to shape the country in the 21st century. Thairath reports that Chulalongkorn died in 1910 at the Amphon Sathan Palace in Dusit, but his reforms and benefits to the people are felt long after his death. He was held in high regard as the “Father of the Nation” and “Buddha of the Monarchy”.
King Chulalongkorn was not just a monarch, but a visionary reformer. He combined traditional Thai governance practices with modern Western forms of administration. Under his rule, crucial laws were passed to abolish slavery, which dates back to the Ayutthaya period. In 1905, the legal framework was created that allowed slaves to free themselves, which brought about an enormous social upheaval [Wikipedia](https://th.wikipedia.org/wiki/%E0%B8%81%E0%B8%B2%E0%B8%A3%E0%B 9%80%E0%B8%A5%E0%B8%B4%E0%B8%81%E0%B8%97%E0%B8%B2%E0%B8%AA%E0%B9%81%E0%B8% A5%E0%B8%B0%E0%B9%84%E0%B8%9E%E0%B8%A3%E0%B9%88%E0%B9%83%E0%B8%99%E0%B8%9B %E0%B8%A3%E0%B8%B0%E0%B9%80%E0%B8%97%E0%B8%A9%E0%B9%84%E0%B8%97%E0%B8%A2).
The automobile reform and its consequences
A no less exciting chapter of his rule was Chulalongkorn's interest in automobiles. He had roads built in Bangkok in the early 1900s to increase mobility. His first royal car, a Mercedes Benz 28 HP, was ordered in Paris in 1904. These developments are notable as they laid the foundation for modern traffic regulations in Thailand. The first automobile law regulating the registration of vehicles was passed in 1909 Thairath.
The first automobile exhibitions also took place under his patronage. On October 7, 1905, Bangkok displayed 30 automobiles, an important sign of progress. However, the increasing number of vehicles also brought traffic problems and accidents, which ultimately led to the need for further regulations.
A legacy of reforms
Chulalongkorn's reforms were profound. In addition to abolishing slavery, he also introduced a variety of social and economic reforms. His measures to improve administration and justice made a decisive contribution to the modernization of the country. Historians Britannica emphasize that these reforms are considered the basis for the modern Thai state. The creation of a centralized bureaucracy and the introduction of a modern school system are just a few of the many changes he brought about.
The reforms were not only met with approval. Critics, including editor Smith, spoke negatively about the financial burdens imposed by forced labor, which affected men ages 15 to 70. But Chulalongkorn's goal was clear: to improve living conditions for all Thais.
Today, October 23, King Chulalongkorn is remembered not only as a monarch, but also as the one who set the course for modern Thai society. His legacy lives on and remains an important part of Thai identity. A visit to his memorial site is an excellent opportunity to learn more about the history and enduring influences of his rule.