This book is a compilation from the annals of history. Taken from first-hand accounts of explorers, missionaries and traders from the West's earliest contact, this is a faithful synthesis of Thai history, culture and ethnography as they knew and observed it. George Bacon brings together the history of these tumultuous times, along with cultural description, a large extent of geographic knowledge, and insight into the people and their lives. He does all of this with a clear focus and a generosity of spirit that was rare for his time. This book is the valuable early account of Thailand as explorers first found her. As such, it is a rare window into a people and a place which is all but lost to us today. The power of memory for a people and a land is beyond estimation. The DNA of the people and the land that we find here in this book holds vital clues to us who would work to call up the Thai people into their divine, end-time destiny!

The book presents an informative and well-sourced look at Siam in the 1800s. It provides a historical background of the country, its tradition, religion, beliefs, and daily life.