A Construction of Nationalist Discourse in the Siamese Chinese-language Newspapers in the 1910s and 1920s
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Abstract
This article aims to examine the role of newspapers in shaping Siamese-Chinese individuals’ nationalism by analyzing the rhetorical strategies used across various Chinese publications in Siam. The study focuses on Chinese-language newspapers published between the 1910s and 1920s and explores how these media outlets contributed to the creation and dissemination of nationalist ideologies. Through a detailed content analysis of three newspapers, i.e., Tianhan Gongbao, Huaxian Xinbao, and Zhonghua Minbao, the research identifies key rhetorical devices, such as Sun Yat-sen’ Sanmin Zhuyi [nationalism, democracy, and people’s livelihood] and anti-traditionalism proposed in the May Fourth Movement which started in 1919 that were commonly employed to promote national identity and unity.
The findings reveal that newspapers not only served as a platform for political actors but also played a crucial role in constructing narratives that aligned with the objectives of nationalist movements. Furthermore, the study highlights the specific formats and journalistic techniques used, including news reports, commentaries, and advertisements for national products. These findings provide insight into the complex interplay between media and politics in the building process of the Siamese-Chinese’s national consciousness.
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Archival Materials from TDCN, HCU
Huaxian Xinbao (June 1922 – April 1929) [Thailand Digital Chinese Newspaper Archive].
Tianhan Gongbao (July 1917 – August 1917) [Thailand Digital Chinese Newspaper Archive].
Zhonghua Minbao (January 1923 – April 1929) [Thailand Digital Chinese Newspaper Archive].
