This thesis is an analytical study of Triad Societies in Thailand between 182 –1910. The purpose of this thesis is to explore the background of these societies, their various roles and their impact on Thai politics, economics and society during that period. A study of the government’s policies toward the Triad – Society problem is also included. In this research, information from a great number of primary and secondary sources and interviews has been accumulated and thoroughly studied by historical method. From the study, it was found that the overseas Chinese, trying to improve their living conditions in Thailand, founded Triad Societies for helping and protecting each other in their occupations and organizing welfare for unfortunate members. Most societies were assemblies of Chinese who spoke the same dialect. The societies were scattered in the many areas with large number of Chinese inhabitants. These societies had both positive and negative aspects. The assistance and welfare activities were beneficial, but the societies at time fought against each other, performed illegal acts and led uprisings against oppressive employers and local government officials. These latter activities had a very negative impact on Thai politics, economics and society during that period. Thus the Government made many efforts to abolish these secret societies and eventually succeeded in the early years of King Vajiravudh’s reign.
