| Date | November 2016 | Marks available | 20 | Reference code | 16N.3op3.HL.TZ0.6 |
| Level | Higher level only | Paper | Paper 3 (History of Asia and Oceania) | Time zone | TZ0 |
| Command term | To what extent | Question number | 6 | Adapted from | N/A |
Question
“The Siamese monarchs’ effective use of diplomacy ensured their country’s independence was maintained.” To what extent do you agree with this statement?
Markscheme
Candidates will offer a considered and balanced review of the argument that Siam owed its independence to the diplomatic methods used by its monarchs in their dealings with Britain and France. They may agree or disagree with the statement; however, opinions and conclusions will be presented clearly and supported with appropriate evidence.
Indicative content
The monarchs’ use of diplomacy
- The monarchs during this period were Mongkut (1851–1868), Chulalongkorn (1868–1910) and Vajiravudh (1910–1925). Both Mongkut and Chulalongkorn conceded less vital land to France and Britain to ensure the survival of Siamese independence. They played off British interests in the west and south against those of the French in the east. These diplomatic agreements
established Siam as a neutral buffer kingdom between the British territories of Burma and Malaya and French Indochina. - In 1855, a treaty between Siam and Britain set out terms that favoured British trade and representation. This was a similar treaty to those imposed by European powers on other Asian countries.
- In 1893, Siam signed a similar treaty with France and, in 1907, ceded the provinces of Battambang and Siem Reap to the French. In 1909, Siam ceded the provinces of Perlis, Kedah, Kelantan and Trengganu to Britain.
- In 1917, during the reign of Vajiravudh, the willingness of the Siamese to participate in the First World War strengthened the bonds of friendship with the French and the British.
Other factors
- Both Mongkut and Chulalongkorn modernized the state by employing Western advisers to assist in the reorganization of the country’s administration, commerce, infrastructure and education.
- Some candidates may criticize Siam’s cessation of land in order to maintain its independence.
The above material is an indication of what candidates may elect to write about in their responses. However, the list is not exhaustive and no set answer is required.
Examiners and moderators are reminded of the need to apply the markbands that provide the “best fit” to the responses given by candidates and to award credit wherever it is possible to do so.
[20 marks]
