Bowring Treaty

The Bowring Treaty, signed in 1855 between the Kingdom of Siam (now Thailand) and the United Kingdom, was an agreement that opened Thailand to more foreign trade and influence. It reduced tariffs, allowed easier foreign access to ports, and granted British merchants and travelers certain privileges. The treaty aimed to modernize Siam’s economy and foster peaceful relations, but it also marked the beginning of increased Western influence over Thai affairs. Overall, it played a key role in shaping Thailand’s interactions with Western powers in the late 19th century.