A Resounding Failure: Martin and the French in Siam, 1672-1693 (Treasures from the Past)

Initially seeking converts and trade, the French presence in 17th-century Siam turned into a classic colonial adventure, with troops sent to occupy, by force if necessary, the most important ports of Bangkok and Mergui. Fran'ois Martin, from his unique viewpoint as director of the French trading outpost at Pondich ry on the coast of India, provides a careful analysis of the motives of the persons involved in the French colonizing venture. Michael Smithies has skillfully translated and assembled all the references to Siam from Martin's Memoirs, linking the segments with his own knowledgeable commentary to present a detailed picture of the unfolding tragedy.Michael Smithies is the author of 'A Resounding Failure: Martin and the French in Siam, 1672-1693 (Treasures from the Past)', published 1999 under ISBN 9789747100716 and ISBN 9747100711.