Page 298 - A History of Siam

280 A HISTORT OF SUM

Siam entered the Great War on the side of the Allies
in and a small but efficient
1917, extremely Expeditionary
Force was sent to Europe. This step greatly strengthened
the bonds of between Siam and her
friendship neighbours,
Great Britain and France.
Towards the end of King Rama's reign new Treaties
were concluded with the United States, France, Great
Britain last in all the other Powers
(the I925),>and foreign
with interests in Siam, providing for the ultimate fiscal
and judicial autonomy of the Kingdom. Siam is now,
and re-
therefore, completely independent, practically
leased from foreign control, direct or indirect.
Rama VI died on November His
King 26th, 1925.
only child was a daughter, born the day before his death.
He was, therefore, succeeded by his youngest and only
the
surviving full-brother, Prajadhipok, present reigning
monarch.
was born on November
King Prajadhipok 8th, 1893.
He married in a of his Prince
1918 daughter uncle,
but as no
Svasti, has, yet, offspring.
All the new since he ascended the
King's measures,
throne, have been such as to inspire a feeling ofconfidence
and his realm. he be
optimism throughout May long
to his the of
spared guide people along path prosperity
and
progress.