England During 1857–1858 as Reflected in the Chronicle of the Siamese Embassy to England

ประเทศอังกฤษในช่วง ค.ศ. 1857–1858 จากจดหมายเหตุเรื่อง ราชทูตไทยไปประเทศอังกฤษ

Abstract

This study examines England during the years 1857–1858, under the reign of Queen Victoria, through an analysis of The Chronicle of the Siamese Embassy to England authored by Mom Rajawongse Rachothai (Kratai Issarangkul). This document is one of the most significant records detailing the experiences of the Thai envoys who traveled to England to establish diplomatic relations during the reign of King Rama IV. The study focuses on five key themes that emerge from Rachothai’s observations: (1) the physical landscape of England, (2) cities, architecture, and notable landmarks, (3) the monarchy and royal palaces, (4) the relationship between the Siamese envoys and the British royal court, and (5) the lifestyles of the English people. Special emphasis is placed on the perspective of an observer from a country that was less technologically advanced than Britain at the time. The findings reveal that Mom Rajawongse Rachothai expressed both admiration and astonishment at England’s environment, technological advancements, and public infrastructure, which were unprecedented in Siam. Moreover, his observations offer a comparative perspective between the two cultures, providing valuable insights into how Thai envoys perceived the Western world in the mid-19th century. The study also highlights the Thai perception of and adaptation to Western influences, serving as crucial historical evidence that illustrates the transitional period of Thai society at the onset of national reforms in response to modernization challenges.