F. H. Turpin's 'History of the Kingdom of Siam and of the revolutions that have caused the overthrow of the empire' is a comprehensive study of the rise and fall of the Siamese Empire. Turpin provides detailed accounts of the political intrigues, power struggles, and cultural developments that shaped the history of Siam. Written in a scholarly and objective tone, the book combines historical analysis with firsthand accounts to offer a nuanced understanding of the complex dynamics at play in the region. Turpin's literary style is both engaging and informative, making this book a valuable resource for anyone interested in Southeast Asian history. The book is a significant contribution to the field of historical studies, shedding light on a lesser-known period of Siamese history. With meticulous research and compelling storytelling, Turpin presents a vivid portrait of a kingdom in turmoil. I highly recommend this book to readers seeking a deeper understanding of Siam's tumultuous past.

Part fact, part fiction, part myth, and part legend, this book brings to life the kingdom of Ayutthaya from its roots in the kingdom of Sukhothai to its eventual destruction by the Burmese in the year 1767. It is the turbulent story of both the kings and their kingdom, from its birth to its downfall. Robert Smith retells the history of Ayutthaya by reimagining and dramatizing the exploits of its rulers, building his account around a framework of documentary evidence and hints in the historical record. Intrigues, honor, and deception wind through the tale as do ingenuity, determination, and the will to greatness that made Ayutthaya a major regional power for centuries. This account of the development of a nation—and the myths and legends that have gone with it—shows how Ayutthaya and its kings laid the foundation of modern-day Thailand. Highlights • Engages readers with its presentation of the history, myths, and legends of the Ayutthaya kingdom • Shows the development of cultural heritage, kingship, and governance of Thailand • Narrates the stories of the kings and ruling dynasties of Ayutthaya • Dramatizes famous figures and events in Ayutthaya history through dialogue, narration, and description

Early European visitors placed Ayutthaya alongside China and India as the great powers of Asia. Yet in 1767 the city was destroyed and its history has been neglected. This book is the first study of Ayutthaya from its emergence in the thirteenth century until its fall. It offers a wide-ranging view of social, political, and cultural history with focus on commerce, kingship, Buddhism, and war. By drawing on a wide range of sources including chronicles, accounts by Europeans, Chinese, Persians, and Japanese, law, literature, art, landscape, and language, the book presents early Siam as a 'commercial' society, not the peasant society usually assumed. Baker and Phongpaichit attribute the fall of the city not to internal conflict or dynastic decline but failure to manage the social and political consequences of prosperity. This book is essential reading for all those interested in the history of Southeast Asia and the early modern world.