Abstract:
The thesis traces the development of Muay Thai from the year 1920-2003 (BE 2463-2546) with the objective of studying the effects of westernisation and commercialisation on the sport's role and significance in Thai society. It takes a historical approach, using both primary and secondary resources. Its findings are that there are eight major roles that have been played and continues to be played by Muay Thai: as a form of military training, a vehicle for social and economic advancement, a method of commemoration, a national symbol, a popular domestic sport, a medium for gambling, a tourist attraction, and finally as an international sport. These roles either existed before 1920 or emerged thereafter and continue to exist today.
