
The History of Cambodia
Cambodia's history is marked by powerful ancient empires like Angkor, known for impressive temples such as Angkor Wat. French colonization in the 19th century brought modernization but also struggles. After gaining independence in 1953, Cambodia faced political instability and chaos, culminating in the brutal Khmer Rouge regime (1975-1979), which caused widespread atrocities. The country slowly recovered, transitioning to a constitutional monarchy and a market economy. Today, Cambodia balances its rich cultural heritage with ongoing efforts to rebuild and develop amid a complex history of resilience and transformation.