Khmer Empire (9th to 15th centuries).

The Khmer Empire, with its capital at Angkor, was a powerful and influential civilization in Southeast Asia. It reached its zenith in the 12th century under King Jayavarman VII. The empire was known for its stunning temple complexes, most notably Angkor Wat. However, by the 15th century, it began to decline due to internal strife and external pressures.

Colonial Period (19th century).

Cambodia became a French protectorate in the late 19th century as part of French Indochina. The French colonial period lasted until the mid-20th century and had a lasting impact on Cambodian society.

Independence and Post-World War II Era (1953-1970).

Cambodia gained independence from France in 1953. Prince Norodom Sihanouk, who had played a prominent role in the struggle for independence, became the country's leader. However, Cambodia was drawn into the conflicts of the neighboring Vietnam War, leading to political instability and eventually a coup in 1970.

Khmer Rouge Era (1975-1979).

The Khmer Rouge, led by Pol Pot, seized control of Cambodia in 1975. They implemented a radical communist agrarian reform program that resulted in the deaths of approximately 1.7 million people through execution, forced labor, and starvation. This period is often referred to as the Cambodian Genocide.

Vietnamese Occupation (1979-1989).

In 1979, Vietnamese forces invaded Cambodia, overthrowing the Khmer Rouge regime. Cambodia was placed under Vietnamese occupation, leading to a period of conflict and instability.

United Nations Transitional Authority (1992-1993).

In the early 1990s, a United Nations peacekeeping mission, known as UNTAC, was deployed to Cambodia to oversee a transition to multiparty democracy. Elections were held in 1993, leading to the establishment of a constitutional monarchy.

Post-Conflict Reconstruction (1990s-2000s).

Cambodia went through a process of post-conflict reconstruction and economic development. The country's political landscape remained turbulent, marked by power struggles and human rights concerns.

Recent History (2010s-present).

Cambodia has experienced some economic growth in recent years, driven by tourism and the garment industry. However, political power has been concentrated in the hands of Prime Minister Hun Sen, who had until recently been in office since 1985. Shortly after elections in 2023 Hun Sen handed the Prime Ministership and the country to his son Hun Manet.

Concerns about political repression, human rights abuses, and democratic backsliding still persist in the country.

In summary, Cambodia has a complex history marked by the rise and fall of the Khmer Empire, the devastating Khmer Rouge era, and subsequent attempts to rebuild and stabilise the country. Present-day Cambodia faces challenges related to political governance and human rights, while also striving for economic development and stability.

Cambodian History