Military history of Thailand

From Freepedia

The Military History of Thailand is quite interesting. Thailand is a country that believes in peace. Ninety eight percent of its population is buddhist and they believe in pacifism. However, it is interesting to note that Thailand has been involved in many wars. They fended off and lost to Burma in several wars from the early 1500s to the mid eighteenth century. Around a thousand years ago, Thai people developed a dangerous military martial art called Muay Thai. It is known today as Thai Kick boxing. During World War 2, Thailand tried valiantly to fend off Japan but was unsuccessful. Thailand's military at that time used muskets and elephants, while the Japanese had automatic rifles, tanks and airplanes. Thailand was forced to succumb to the Japanese and were occupied for a number of years. Thailand also provided material and troop support to South Vietnam during the 1960s and for many years has held joint military training operations with the United States.