Cambodia’s Strategic Role in Vietnam-Siam Relations in the early decades of the 19th century
Abstract
The purpose of the research paper is to analyse Cambodia’s strategic role in the Vietnam-Siam (known as Thailand from 1939 onward) relationship from 1802 to 1848. The research focuses on Cambodia’s position as an intermediary in the Vietnam-Siam relationship within a complex geopolitical context, as well as the intervention and expansion strategies pursued by Vietnam and Siam. Additionally, the study examines the political and military motives of these two powers regarding Cambodia.
The scientific novelty. The article drew on theories of geopolitics, soft power, and international relations, as well as interdisciplinary research methods, to examine the strategic motives of Vietnam and Siam and to highlight Cambodia’s complex intermediary role in maintaining or altering the regional balance of power.
Conclusions. The article offers insights into the Vietnam-Siam relationship and draws historical lessons on the role of intermediary states in managing conflicts and preserving peace in the context of complex power dynamics in mainland Southeast Asia during the early 19th century. The research findings affirm that Cambodia not only served as a strategic ‘buffer zone’ between the two largest feudal powers in the region but also became the centre of a struggle for influence, where the military and diplomatic strategies of both Vietnam and Siam were most vigorously deployed.
Due to its unique geopolitical position, Cambodia became a focal point of competition for influence between the Nguyen Dynasty (Vietnam) and the Chakri Dynasty (Siam). It functioned not only as a strategic ‘buffer zone’ but also as a crossroads of power, contributing to the shaping of the political and military landscape in the region.
The Nguyen Dynasty pursued a protectionist policy by supporting and intervening in the Cambodian royal court, while Siam adopted a strategy of military intervention and political consolidation. In response, Cambodia attempted to balance the pressure from both powers through a ‘dual vassalage’ strategy, submitting to the power of both Vietnam and Siam. However, this policy gradually eroded Cambodia’s autonomy, transforming it into a ‘power arena’ between two dominant feudal states.
Funding. This research is funded by Vietnam National University Ho Chi Minh City (VNU-HCM) under the grant number B2023-18b-03.
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