American Military Base with the Economic Growth of Nakhon Ratchasima

Abstract

               Nakhon Ratchasima Province has a very important political and economic role in Thailand. It has been the center of governance of the Korat basin for a long period of time because of its strategic location as the gateway to the Northeast of Thailand.  In the past, Nakhon Ratchasima was the center of manpower control and tribute and goods collections, especially the forest products in Isaan area, which were the major export items until the early Rattanakosin period. The economy of Nakhon Ratchasima began to shift from self-reliance to commercialization after the 1851 Bowring Treaty until the establishment of an American base in the Indochina War that brought in the major military construction projects, such as the construction of transportation routes, including the Highway No. 2, No. 304, and No. 331, as well as the army and air bases. As a result, Nakhon Ratchasima has become a transportation hub linking Bangkok to the Northeast. The arrival of American troops made the economy of Nakhon Ratchasima thrive as it created a variety of businesses to meet the needs of the American Military.