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Early History
It is estimated that by 40,000 B.C., the area that is now known as Thailand was settled by hunters and gatherers and nomadic groups. In fact, many believe Thailand was the cradle for the first bronze-age civilization. Around the 11th century, the Tai people not be confused with Thais, their descendants, migrated into Southeast Asia and eventually established dominance among the other civilizations living in the area including the Mon and Khmer peoples. They would live on through their continuing influence on Thai culture, language, and religion.
Later, the Tai people split into two main settlements: the Lanna Kingdom of the north and the Sukhothai Kingdom of the Central Plains, creating two divergent civilizations with different cultures. The reign of the Lanna Kingdom would be marked by almost incessant war. The capital of Lanna, Chiang Mai, evenutally fell under Burmese control for more than a century. Meanwhile, kingdom of Sukhothai enjoyed an age of peace and prosperity.
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