Power and Culture: Ram Wong Mattrathan

Abstract

        This article aims to present Ram Wong Mattrathan as a tool for communicating Thai cultural power according to the Field Marshal Plaek Phibunsongkhram's policy to show a civilized nation to the world. A creative approach to disseminating Ram Wong Mattrathan purposed to change life and political value and cultivate Thai cultural concepts, behaviours, and traditions based on the leader's desires. In terms of dissemination through the public on various occasions, the government continued to act in various activities, including the selection of the performing arts, a blend of original and contemporary creations, and inspection by the appointed specialists. These actions have made the prototype artists, who showed their performances, gain popularity and caused motivation and social trends. Determining the practices of society led to the instillation of individuality and society at large when people watched, listened, and followed the significant ideas through the lyrics to become the routine activity transmitted to the next generation. The influence of Ram Wong Mattrathan on the individual person, the particular social group, and the society at that time also had a subsequent impact on Thai nationalism, independence, international Thai costume or international style, military service, diligence, Thai dance and play, Thai language, and characteristics of Thai women. In addition, when Ram Wong Mattrathan is presented to foreigners, it also creates the country's image and expands the cultural influence reflecting solidarity.