The Chinese and Indian Communities in Thonburi, from 1855 to 1910

Abstract

This article aims to study the Chinese and Indian communities in Thonburi from 1855 to 1910 which played an important role in the economy. The Treaty of Bowring between Siam and Britain in 1855 forced Siam to adopt a policy on trading, affecting the Thonburi economy. Moreover, it also permitted foreigners to settle down in Bangkok and the surrounding areas within 24 hours of travelling by boat. The treaty also gave an opportunity for the Chinese and Indians to set up home in Thonburi, resulting in the emergence of Chinese and Indian communities. Each community, therefore, had its own identity. In 1910, when the Rama | Bridge was finished and 11 new roads in Thonburi were opened for use, creating the settlements of many new communites in various areas, which effected the Chines and Indians' way of life in Thonburi.