ABSTRACT
Rama VI's rule was, however, notable for some of Thailand's achievements in the external field, thanks to World War I and the opportunistic diplomacy of the veteran Prince Dewawongse. The immediate cause of the revolution of 1932 was provided by Thailand's depression, necessitating budgetary cuts in the salaries and promotions of junior civil-service and military officers. Since the end of the absolute monarchy in 1932, Thailand has withstood thirteen revolutions and eight constitutions. Thailand's several constitutions have maintained certain common features, including separation of powers, rights and duties of the citizens, and the cabinet's submission of policies to and subservience to the parliament. When Japanese forces landed in Thailand, the Phibun Songkhram government did the bidding of the Japanese military hierarchy, providing transit rights and essential supplies. The Chinese community in Thailand also helped the resistance movement because community assets had been frozen by the government under Japanese pressure.
