The Thai Resistance Movement During World War II [Paperback]

John B. Haseman (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: January 1, 2002

On December 8, 1941, less than two hours after the attack on Pearl Harbor, Japanese forces began invading Thailand. Despite Thailand's strong national pride, the government had no recourse but to surrender to Japanese demands and allow their troops to occupy the country. The military agreement between Thailand and Japan spontaneously mobilized an underground resistance movement that gained in strength and momentum as the war progressed. Led by Pridi Banomyong, the resistance grew into a mass movement throughout the country, including many prominent figures in the government, the military, and the police. Organized resistance efforts sprang up among Thai students in the U.S. and England as well, training them for guerrilla operations and intelligence missions inside Thailand. The Seri Thai, or Free Thai Movement, became a major political force once the war was over, effectively blocking the attempt by some allied countries to extract concessions and take reprisals against Thailand. John B. Haseman gives an outsider's perspective on this significant period in the political history of modern Thailand.

Editorial Reviews

Review

"... this book does give us a most valuable insight into the grass-roots origins of the Thai-US alliance which subsequently proved to be a bedrock for the protection of America's interests in the Far East." - Times Literary Supplement, 25 October 2002

About the Author

John B. Haseman gives an outsider's perspective on this significant period in the political history of modern Thailand.

Product Details

• Paperback: 190 pages
• Publisher: Silkworm Books (January 1, 2002)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 9747551624
• ISBN-13: 978-9747551624
• Product Dimensions: 8.3 x 5.7 x 0.5 inches
• Shipping Weight: 9 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #2,880,988 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)