History of Bangkok
The Thai capital since 1782, Bangkok was once a village situated on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River. Because of its ideal location near the mouth of the river, Bangkok served as a customs outpost on both sides of the river, and gradually expanded economically through international trade. Before the 19th century, bamboo huts were built as dwellings, and with bamboo rafts serving as transportation, floating markets selling fruits and vegetables conducted business on the river itself. Bangkok was considered the ‘Venice of the East,’ with its various canals.
As Western influences took over Asia in the 19th century, Bangkok started replacing some of the canals with roads, and the region expanded rapidly after World War II.
