What was Bangkok called before?

Introduction:
Bangkok, the bustling capital city of Thailand, is known for its vibrant street life, ornate temples, and bustling markets. But have you ever wondered what this city was called before it became known as Bangkok? In this presentation, we will explore the history of Bangkok and uncover its previous names.

Presentation:
1. Prehistoric Era:
Before Bangkok was founded, the area was inhabited by various indigenous tribes and communities. The region was lush with forests, rivers, and fertile lands, making it an ideal location for settlement.

2. Ayutthaya Period (1350-1767):
During the Ayutthaya period, the area that is now Bangkok was known as «Krung Thep,» which translates to «City of Angels.» This name was given by King Taksin, who established his capital in the area after the fall of Ayutthaya.

3. Thonburi Period (1767-1782):
After the Burmese invasion of Ayutthaya in 1767, King Taksin moved his capital across the Chao Phraya River to an area known as Thonburi. The city was referred to as «Krung Thonburi,» which means «City of Treasures.»

4. Rattanakosin Period (1782-present):
In 1782, King Rama I established the new capital of Siam on the eastern bank of the Chao Phraya River. The city was officially named «Krung Thep Mahanakhon Amon Rattanakosin Mahinthara Ayuthaya Mahadilok Phop Noppharat Ratchathani Burirom Udomratchaniwet Mahasathan Amon Piman Awatan Sathit Sakkathattiya Witsanukam Prasit,» which is recognized by the Guinness World Records as the world’s longest place name. However, this name is rarely used, and the city is commonly referred to as Bangkok.

Conclusion:
Throughout its history, Bangkok has been known by various names, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of the city. From its humble beginnings as a small settlement to its transformation into a bustling metropolis, Bangkok has evolved into a vibrant and dynamic city that continues to captivate visitors from around the world.

The History of Bangkok: Exploring the Original Name of Thailand’s Capital City

When we think of Bangkok, we often associate it with its bustling streets, vibrant markets, and stunning temples. However, Bangkok was not always known by this name. In fact, the original name of Thailand’s capital city was Krung Thep, which translates to «City of Angels» in Thai.

Before Bangkok became the bustling metropolis that it is today, it was a small trading post on the banks of the Chao Phraya River. The city was founded in the 15th century by King Taksin, who named it Thonburi. It was not until the late 18th century that the city was officially renamed Bangkok by King Rama I, who moved the capital to its current location.

Despite its name change, Bangkok is still referred to as Krung Thep by locals, and the full ceremonial name of the city is actually the longest place name in the world, consisting of 169 characters in Thai script.

So, the next time you visit Thailand’s capital city, remember that Bangkok was once known as Thonburi and Krung Thep before it became the bustling metropolis that we know today.

Uncovering the Origins: Exploring the Predecessor of Bangkok

Before the bustling metropolis of Bangkok became the capital of Thailand, it was known by a different name. Exploring the predecessor of Bangkok allows us to delve into the rich history of the city and uncover its origins.

Bangkok was originally called Thonburi before it was established as the capital in the late 18th century. Thonburi was a small trading post situated on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River, while the eastern bank was home to the city of Ayutthaya.

After the fall of Ayutthaya in 1767, King Taksin moved the capital to Thonburi and renamed it Bangkok. The city grew rapidly under his rule, becoming a major center of trade and commerce in Southeast Asia.

Today, Bangkok is a vibrant and diverse city that reflects its rich history and cultural heritage. Exploring the origins of Bangkok allows us to appreciate the city’s evolution and the influences that have shaped it into the bustling metropolis it is today.

Uncovering the Origins: What Was Thailand’s Original Name?

Many people may be familiar with the modern name of Thailand, but did you know that the country had a different name in the past? Thailand’s original name was actually Siam.

Siam was the official name of the country until 1939, when it was changed to Thailand by Prime Minister Plaek Phibunsongkhram. The name change was part of a series of reforms that aimed to modernize and unify the country.

Before Bangkok was known as Bangkok, it was called Krung Thep, which means «City of Angels» in Thai. The full name of Bangkok is actually Krung Thep Maha Nakhon, which translates to «Great City of Angels.»

It is interesting to look back at the history of Thailand and its original name of Siam. The country has a rich and diverse cultural heritage that has influenced its name changes over the years.

Next time you visit Bangkok, remember that it was once known as Krung Thep and that Thailand was originally called Siam. Understanding the origins of these names can provide a deeper appreciation for the country’s history and culture.

The Fascinating History Behind the Change from Siam to Thailand: Exploring the Reasons behind the Name Transformation

Before it was known as Bangkok, the capital city of Thailand was called Krung Thep, which means «City of Angels» in Thai. However, the country itself was known by a different name – Siam.

Siam was the official name of Thailand until June 24, 1939, when it was officially changed to Thailand. This change was made to reflect the country’s national identity and to distinguish it from the city of Bangkok.

The name Siam has origins in the Sanskrit word «Sanskrit,» which means «dark» or «brown.» It was used by outsiders to refer to the kingdom that existed in Southeast Asia in the past. However, the people of the kingdom referred to themselves as Thai, meaning «free.»

When the country modernized and opened up to the rest of the world, the government decided to change the name to Thailand in order to promote a sense of unity and national pride among its citizens. The name Thailand means «Land of the Free» and is a reflection of the country’s history and culture.

Overall, the change from Siam to Thailand was a significant moment in the country’s history, marking a new chapter in its development and identity. The transformation of the name reflects the rich and complex history of the region and its people.

In conclusion, the city of Bangkok has undergone several name changes throughout its history, reflecting the various political and cultural influences that have shaped the region. From its origins as a small trading post known as Bang Makok, to its transformation into the vibrant and bustling metropolis of Bangkok, the city’s name has evolved alongside its growth and development. By understanding the city’s previous names and their significance, we gain a deeper appreciation for Bangkok’s rich history and heritage.
Before it was known as Bangkok, the city was called Bang Makok, which means «place of olive plums.» This old name reflects the city’s origins as a small trading post on the banks of the Chao Phraya River. Over time, the city grew and evolved into the bustling metropolis we know today as Bangkok. Despite its modern name, the city’s history and culture are still deeply rooted in its ancient roots as Bang Makok.