-Funeral Period (circa 500-1000 AD): Early Cambodia was influenced by Indian culture and Hinduism. The region was home to the Funan and Chenla civilizations, which were early Indianized kingdoms.
- Khmer Empire (802-1431 AD): Founded by Jayavarman II in 802 AD, the Khmer Empire is one of the most significant periods in Cambodian history. It expanded significantly under rulers like Suryavarman II and Jayavarman VII. The empire is renowned for its architectural achievements, including the construction of Angkor Wat and the Bayon Temple. The Khmer Empire was a major center of art, culture, and politics in Southeast Asia.
Colonial Period
- French Protectorate (1863-1953): In 1863, Cambodia became a French protectorate. The French influence had a significant impact on Cambodia’s administration and infrastructure. Despite this period of colonial rule, Cambodia retained some degree of autonomy and continued to practice its traditions.
Independence and Modern Era
- Independence (1953):Cambodia gained independence from France in 1953 under King Norodom Sihanouk. The early years of independence were marked by relative stability and a focus on modernization.
- Khmer Rouge Regime (1975-1979): The Khmer Rouge, led by Pol Pot, took control of Cambodia in 1975. Their radical communist regime led to the genocide of approximately 1.7 million people through forced labor, starvation, and executions. The regime was characterized by extreme brutality and social engineering.
- Vietnamese Occupation and Subsequent Periods (1979-1993): In 1979, Vietnam invaded Cambodia and toppled the Khmer Rouge. Cambodia was placed under a Vietnamese-backed government, and the country faced a prolonged period of conflict and instability. The Paris Peace Accords in 1991 eventually led to a UN-supervised election in 1993, which restored a constitutional monarchy with King Norodom Sihanouk.
Recent History
- Modern Cambodia: Since the 1990s, Cambodia has made significant progress in terms of economic development and political stability, though challenges remain. The country has experienced growth in tourism and development, but issues such as political tension, corruption, and human rights concerns persist.
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Cambodia History