Reading Comprehension: Southeast Asia, 1895

What was Siam's location relative to the nearest European colonies?

Which European country could access both the Indian and the Pacific Oceans from its colony?

Why do you think so many Chinese moved to Malaysia?

• For better economic opportunities

• Due to political instability in China

• For educational purposes

• Cultural and historical connections

Why do you think King Chulalongkorn believed that education could prevent competition from foreigners?

• To modernize the country

• To strengthen military power

• To improve trade relations

• To preserve traditional culture

How did Siam keep Britain and France at bay?

• By engaging in significant military conflicts

• Through diplomatic negotiations and treaties

• By forming alliances with neighboring countries

• None of the above

Organize Information: Which Western power do you think had the most negative impact on its colonies in Southeast Asia?

• Spain

• Netherlands

• United Kingdom

• France

Key Terms and People: For each key term or person in the lesson, write a sentence explaining its significance.

Compare: How were the Dutch East India Trading Company and the British East India Company similar?

• Both established monopolies over trade in Asia

• Both were primarily focused on the exploration of the New World

• Both were government-owned enterprises

• Both were initially established to trade with the Americas

Analyze Effects: What changes took place in Southeast Asia as a result of colonial control?

• Economic exploitation and the introduction of cash crops

• Significant improvements in infrastructure and healthcare

• Complete independence and self-sufficiency of Southeast Asian countries

• No significant changes occurred

Draw Conclusions: How did the reforms of the Siamese kings help Siam remain independent?

• By modernizing the military and government, making Siam less vulnerable to colonial powers

• By isolating the country from foreign influences and trade

• By ceding territory to neighboring countries to avoid conflict

• By entering into unequal treaties with Western powers