This is the first book to provide a broad coverage of Thai legal history in the English language. It deals with pre-modern law, the civil law reforms of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, and the constitutional developments post-1932. It reveals outstanding scholarship by both Thai and international scholars, and will be of interest to anyone interested in Thailand and its history, providing an indispensable introduction to Thai law and the legal system. The civil law reforms are a notable focus of the book, which provides material of interest to comparative lawyers, especially those interested in the diffusion of the civil law.

'This edited collection is a work of great scholarly depth and breadth. It unites the work of an exciting group of scholars to address fundamental questions concerning the past and future of the Thai legal system. Lively issues in Thai legal history such as 'legal families', 'legal culture' and the civilian heritage of Thai law are thoroughly investigated. It is, without doubt, a future classic of Thai legal history.'

Paul du Plessis - Professor of Roman Law, Edinburgh University

'This is a ground-breaking work – the first collection of Thai legal history essays in English. Featuring works by a group of senior and junior scholars, these essays range right across the epochs and encompass an eclectic mix of subjects. Radiating scholarship and erudition, these essays will appeal to specialists and generalists alike. Hats off to Harding and Pongsapan for pulling off what those studying legal history in Southeast Asia have long regarded as an impossibility. An important and compelling read.'

Kevin Tan - Professor of Law, National University of Singapore