Cambodia’s history spans from its earliest days of human habitation around 6000 BCE to the rise of early kingdoms like Funan in the 1st century CE, Cambodia laid the groundwork for a complex societal structure. The formation of the Khmer Empire in 802 marked the beginning of the Angkor Period, a time of monumental architectural and cultural accomplishments. This era, which saw the construction of Angkor Wat and other significant temples, was followed by a period of political instability and territorial loss, leading into the colonial era under French rule in the late 19th century. Cambodia’s journey through the 20th century was marked by a struggle for independence, devastating conflict during the Khmer Rouge regime, and a gradual path toward peace and democracy in the modern era.
Prehistoric to Early History
- 6000-4200 BCE: Earliest evidence of human habitation, stone tools, and pottery in Laang Spean Cave.
- 1st Century CE: Funan, the first known Cambodian kingdom, thrives as a trade hub.
- 550 CE: Decline of Funan, rise of Chenla (Land and Water Chenla kingdoms).
Angkor Period (802-1431)
- 802: Jayavarman II founded the Khmer Empire, and declared himself “god-king” on Mount Kulen.
- 877-889: Reign of Indravarman I, major temple construction and expansion of irrigation systems.
- 1113-1150: Suryavarman II builds Angkor Wat, marking the zenith of Khmer architecture.
- 1181-1218: Jayavarman VII expands the empire, and constructs Bayon and Ta Prohm.
- 1431: Siamese forces sack Angkor, marking the decline of the Khmer Empire.
Middle Period (1431-1863)
- 15th-17th Centuries: Capitals shift to Longvek, then Oudong, reflecting political instability.
- 1594: Siamese capture Longvek, significant loss of territory.
- 18th Century: Ongoing conflicts with Vietnam and Siam; territorial losses continue.
- 1841: Ang Duong becomes king, and starts modernization and centralization efforts.
- 1860: Rediscovery of Angkor Wat by French explorer Henri Mouhot.
Colonial Era (1863-1953)
- 1863: King Norodom signs a protectorate treaty with France to fend off Siam and Vietnam.
- 1887: Cambodia becomes part of French Indochina.
- 1941-1945: Japanese occupation during World War II; Norodom Sihanouk becomes king.
- 1953: Cambodia gains independence from France under King Sihanouk.
Modern History (1953-Present)
- 1953-1970: Sihanouk’s neutralist policies amid Cold War tensions.
- 1970-1975: Lon Nol coup, the establishment of the Khmer Republic; US bombings during the Vietnam War.
- 1975-1979: Khmer Rouge regime under Pol Pot, genocidal policies lead to millions of deaths.
- 1979-1989: Vietnamese invasion, establishment of the People’s Republic of Kampuchea.
- 1991: Paris Peace Agreements, the transition towards democracy.
- 1993: First democratic elections, coalition government formed.
- 1998: Death of Pol Pot, the formal end of Khmer Rouge resistance.
The history of Cambodia is characterized by its resilience through cycles of prosperity and adversity. The ancient achievements of the Khmer Empire, with its grand temples and sophisticated society, laid a foundation that has influenced Cambodian culture through centuries of change. The colonial period and the tumultuous events of the 20th century, including the Khmer Rouge era, left deep scars on the nation’s fabric. However, Cambodia’s recovery and ongoing development into a democratic state reflect its enduring spirit. Today, Cambodia continues to navigate its complex historical legacy while forging a path toward stability and growth.
