Trouble in Thailand

Because of where Thailand is at there are many different ethnic and cultural influences currently under one government. Slowly, through other political issues, the divisions in these different identities and belief systems are beginning to reemerge. It seems that the division can been seen geographically, with the northern part of the country leaning one way and the southern part (also closer to the capital) leaning in a different direction. As a result there the people in Thailand have a better sense of regionality than the do of nationalism. Some citizens are think this is the most divided the country has been in recent memory. It also sounds like Bangkok does have a ton of control over citizens' daily lives, or at least they have in the past. Apparently, things like the greetings the people use and what the national food is are enforced by the government. To add to the mess, the king that has historically been instrumental in uniting the people, is ailing and hasn't been involved in these growing issues. As a result of all these factors both sides seem to think if tensions intensify anymore a civil war is eminent. From what I read about the history of Thailand, I gather that there is a long history of countless examples of realism. I think if this war happens, it will be interesting to see if this tradition continues. 

Katie Krupica

Here's the link.