Physical and Economic Change in Bangkok, 1851-1925

Abstract

This paper explains the major patterns of physical change in Bangkok from 1851 brought about by the expansion of canals and roads and the attendant development of new suburbs. From around 1890 we see clearly a change in Bangkok from a water-based city to a land-based city. This paper argues that the period from around 1890 to 1910 is significant in Bangkok's development. One characteristic of road building in Bangkok is that it was accompanied by the active investment of the Privy Purse Bureau in row houses. Roads brought about great change in the physical and economic landscape of the capital from 1890.