Timeline of Cambodian History: From Funan Kingdom to Modern Era

Cambodia boasts a rich and complex history spanning over two millennia, marked by periods of great cultural and political significance. 

From the rise of the Funan Kingdom in the early centuries AD to the golden age of the Khmer Empire, 

through colonial rule under French protectorate and the tumultuous years of civil war and genocide, Cambodia's past is a tapestry woven with diverse influences and challenges. This overview traces key historical periods, highlighting 

major events and characteristics that have shaped modern-day Cambodia, from the construction of Angkor Wat to the contemporary era of political stability and economic growth.

### Key Historical Periods of Cambodia

#### 1. **Funan Kingdom (200-550 AD)**

   - **Time Period:** Approximately 350 years, from the 2nd to the mid-6th century.

   - **Key Events/Characteristics:**

     - Establishment as a major Indianized kingdom in Southeast Asia.

     - Extensive trade with China and India.

     - Adoption of Hinduism, particularly Shaivism (worship of Shiva).

     - Development of early Khmer script.

#### 2. **Chenla Kingdom (550-802 AD)**

   - **Time Period:** Around 250 years from the mid-6th to the early 9th century.

   - **Key Events/Characteristics:**

     - Division into Land Chenla and Water Chenla.

     - Political instability and frequent internal conflicts.

     - Decline of Hinduism; rise of Mahayana Buddhism.

#### 3. **Khmer Empire (802-1431 AD)**

   - **Time Period:** Over 600 years, spanning from the coronation of Jayavarman II until Siam's invasion.

   - **Key Events/Characteristics:**

     - Construction of Angkor Wat and other major temples.

     - Dominance in Southeast Asian politics and economy.

     - Influence of Hinduism (mainly Shaivism) followed by Theravada Buddhism.

     - Golden Age under Jayavarman VII, who expanded the empire significantly.

#### 4. **Post-Angkorian Period (1431-1863 AD)**

   - **Time Period:** About 400 years from after the fall of Angkor to French colonization.

   - **Key Events/Characteristics:**

     - Decline and loss of political power in the region.

     - Influence by neighboring Siam (Thailand) and Vietnam.

     - Internal conflicts and struggles for independence.

#### 5. **French Protectorate (1863-1953 AD)**

   - **Time Period:** Nearly a century, from signing protectorate agreements with France to gaining independence.

   - **Key Events/Characteristics:**

     - Modernization of infrastructure including education and healthcare systems.

     - Colonial administration under French rule.

     - Resistance movements against colonial power.

#### 6. **Independence and Kingdom of Cambodia (1953-1970 AD)**

   - **Time Period:** About two decades from gaining independence until the coup d'état.

   - **Key Events/Characteristics:**

     - King Norodom Sihanouk's reign as head of state.

     - Neutrality policy during the Cold War and Vietnam War.

#### 7. **Khmer Republic (1970-1975 AD)**

   - **Time Period:** Around five years from the coup until Khmer Rouge takeover.

   - **Key Events/Characteristics:**

     - Overthrow of Sihanouk by Lon Nol, leading to civil war.

     - Relations with the United States and South Vietnam.

#### 8. **Khmer Rouge Regime (1975-1979 AD)**

   - **Time Period:** Four years marked by extreme political repression.

   - **Key Events/Characteristics:**

     - Forced evacuations of cities, including Phnom Penh.

     - Mass killings and purges against suspected enemies or intellectuals.

#### 9. **People's Republic of Kampuchea (1979-1989 AD)**

   - **Time Period:** Ten years under Vietnamese occupation.

   - **Key Events/Characteristics:**

     - Economic rebuilding efforts after the destruction caused by Khmer Rouge.

     - Political repression similar to that of the earlier era.

#### 10. **State of Cambodia (1989-1993 AD)**

   - **Time Period:** Four years marked by a transition period back towards sovereignty.

   - **Key Events/Characteristics:**

     - Shift from Marxist-Leninist to liberal policies.

     - Preparations for democratic elections.

#### 11. **Kingdom of Cambodia (since 1993 AD)**

   - **Time Period:** Ongoing since the restoration of a constitutional monarchy.

   - **Key Events/Characteristics:**

     - Political stability and economic growth in recent years.

     - Challenges with corruption, land rights issues, and human trafficking.

This structured outline provides a clear overview of Cambodia's rich and complex history. Each period highlights significant events that have shaped the nation's identity and development over time.