Abstract:
This dissertation studies the process of power consolidation by Field Marshal Srisdi Dhanarajata. The finding of the research is that Field Marshal Srisdi Dhanarajatas success in governing the country resulted from a systematic and continuous process of power consolidation, within the contexts of Thailands historical, political, economic and social development, as well as the contemporaneous international political situation. The factors vital to the consolidation of Field Marshal Srisdis political power came from three processes, namely control over the bureaucracy; receiving various kinds of aid from the United States of America in developing a secure and modern country; and the highlighting of the monarchys role. These various processes gave Field Marshal Srisdis regime its political legitimacy, thus making his power more secure, and his government more unified than any other since the end of the absolute monarchy in 1932.