Nationalism and Territorial Dispute in the Field Marshal Plaek Phibulsongkram Government (1938-1941)

Abstract

This article focus on territorial dispute (Franco-Thai War) over areas of French Indochina between Thailand and France in the Field Marshal Plaek Phibulsongkram Government that nationalism is the main factor lead to armed conflict between states. The government  use Thainess and Lost Territories Nationalism in Pan-Thai-ism or The Greater Thai Policy for annexed territory on the right bank of the Mekong River : Siem Reap, Pratabong, Srisopon  into Thailand.   Internal political conflict  and international situations such as the Japanese invasion of  Indochina in september 1940 for containing China , Frence declining when Germany attacked  Paris in 1940  that facilitated the government to operate Pan-Thai-ism Policy. This article explains in many parts. Firstly, it explains  internal and external situations in 1938-1941. Secondly, the perceptions of the Field Marshal Plaek Phibulsongkram about territorial irredentism and how nationalism had effected to territorial dispute between Thailand and France.  Thirdly, it explains how government operate the diplomatic and military measures in territorial claim.  Fourthly, what is positive and negative effect of gaining territory from Frence, especially relationship between Thailand and Cambodia. The final part is summary. Nationalism indoctrination in the Field Marshal Plaek Phibulsongkram Government had effected to Preah Vihear Temple dispute between Thailand and Cambodia in recent year.  The consideration on nationalist operations in Phibulsongkram period  helps people realise and understand Preah Vihear Temple dispute between Thailand and Cambodia properly.