On Ratchadamnoen Klang Road in Bangkok, the 14th October 1973 Memorial commemorates people killed in the student-led uprising against military rule. The events of October 14 helped end the dictatorship of Thanom Kittikachorn and changed Thailand’s political system. Look around the monument and its exhibition for photographs, explanations and reproductions of historical newspaper pages. The site also remembers people killed during protests in October 1976 and May 1992. Most inscriptions are in Thai, so a local guide can add context.
The uprising commemorated here
The memorial honours people killed during the student-led uprising that began on October 14, 1973. The revolt brought an end to the military dictatorship led by Thanom Kittikachorn and altered Thailand’s political system. It also marked the growing political influence of university students.
The memorial’s remembrance extends to people killed during later protests in October 1976 and May 1992. Its subject is a difficult chapter in the country’s history, presented in a public space near the Democracy Monument.
The monument and exhibition
The memorial includes a monument and an exhibition area with photographs, explanatory material and copies of historical newspaper pages. A special section from the Bangkok Post covering the events is among the documents on display.
Most of the inscriptions are in Thai. A local guide can help explain the history and political context. Take time to read the material around the monument as well as inside the exhibition area.
FAQ
What does the 14th October 1973 Memorial commemorate?
It honours people killed during the student-led uprising against military rule that began on October 14, 1973. It also remembers people killed during protests in October 1976 and May 1992.
What can you see at the memorial?
There is a monument and an exhibition with photographs, explanatory material and copies of historical newspaper pages.
Is the exhibition in English?
Most inscriptions are in Thai. Consider hiring a local guide for additional context.
Is there an entry fee?
The exhibition has been described as free to visit.
