Thailand was one of the only countries in South and Southeast Asia that avoided colonization during the nineteenth century. The United States and Thailand’s first official diplomatic interaction occurred in 1833 when they signed a Treaty of Amity and Commerce, which was the United States’ first treaty with an Asian country. Since the end of World War II, the United States and Thailand have developed close relations. Modern Flag of Thailand
The United States and Thailand engaged in their first official diplomatic interaction on March 20, 1833, when they signed a Treaty of Amity and Commerce. Edmund Roberts, who negotiated this treaty during a mission to the Far East as Special Agent of the United States, received instructions dated January 27, 1832, that directed him to negotiate treaties with Cochinchina, Siam, and the powers of Arabia on the Red Sea.
John Hassett Chandler became the Acting Vice Consul in Charge on January 25, 1859.
Diplomatic relations and the first U.S. Legation in Thailand (then Siam) were established on October 23, 1882, when John A. Halderman presented his credentials as Minister Resident and Consul General.
On April 10, 1947, Edwin F. Stanton was promoted to become the first U.S. Ambassador to Thailand. Stanton presented his credentials on May 9, 1947.