Paper 2 Theme 1b - National Unity

This episode examines national unity strategies employed by Burma/Myanmar and Thailand, highlighting how both nations utilised a blend of assimilation and multiculturalism. For Burma, the initial post-independence period under U Nu saw an emphasis on Buddhism and the Burmese language to foster unity, which ultimately failed to appease ethnic minorities and led to widespread insurgencies. General Ne Win's subsequent military rule continued an assimilationist approach, centralising power and promoting Burman culture, leading to prolonged civil conflict. In contrast, Thailand, never formally colonised, developed a concept of Thai nationalism under figures like King Vajiravudh and Field Marshal Phibun Songkhram, emphasising the Thai language and Buddhism. Later, Field Marshal Sarit Thanarat revitalised the monarchy as a unifying symbol, and while still promoting assimilation, Thailand achieved greater success in integrating groups like the Chinese, though challenges with Malay-Muslims and other ethno-regional groups persisted.

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