French Protectorate

For the next few centuries, Cambodia struggled to survive among the neighboring countries of Thailand and Vietnam. Both countries fought to control Cambodia and would come to the assistance of the Khmer against the opposite nation. During this time, Cambodia lost the Mekong Delta, Battambang, and Siem Riep. In 1864, French gunboats entered the country and Cambodia signed a treaty of protectorate. The French occupation ended Cambodia’s fighting with Thailand and Vietnam, which brought a period of peace and stability. This relative calm endured with little hindrance until World War II.

World War II

In 1941, Prince Norodom Sihanouk ascended the throne with the help of a French general. Around this time, Japanese forces swept into much of Southeast Asia. The French were able to maintain control of Cambodia during this time but the country was attacked by Thailand in an attempt to regain land lost to the French over the years. Japan quickly drew up treaty papers to regain peace in the area and Battambang and Siem Riep were seceded to Thailand once again. In the last year of the war, Japan moved in to administer Cambodia directly. After the war, France reinstated its power in Cambodia.

Independence

In 1953, Norodom Sihanouk dissolved the parliament and declared martial law. He was attempting to gain international recognition for his cry of independence. On November 9, 1953, Cambodia officially gained its independence. After two years, Norodom Sihanouk abdicated his throne to his father in an attempt to run parliament. In 1955, Sihanouk’s party gained full control of parliament and he became prime minister. When his father died in 1960, Norodom Sihanouk regained his title as head of state as well.

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