The Victory Monument in Bangkok was erected in 1941 as a tribute to Thai soldiers, policemen and servicemen who sacrificed their lives for Thailand. The monument was specifically built for the Thai military sacrifices made during the war effort in Indo-China against the French colonial army. This large military monument is situated in Ratchathewi District near the intersection. The War between Thailand and the French broke out in 1940 following the Nazi capture of Vichy France. Seeing it as an opportune moment to launch an attack on the French Colonial forces, the Thai army launched an offensive to reclaim parts of Siam that were annexed by the French in their colonial exploits.
The War lasted for relatively short time and only 59 soldiers died. The Thais were successful in their endeavor and managed to reclaim parts of Laos and Cambodia. Thailand had to cede some these territories to France in the early 1900’s and many patriotic Thai’s felt that they rightfully belonged to them. In reality the fighting between the French and the Thais was inconclusive and the final agreement was in fact brokered by Japan. This agreement saw Thailand having to give up a number of its conquered territories but the French were not appeased either. The monument is designed in Western architectural style and does not feature any traditional Thai designs. The central obelisk rises straight up in to the air and is meant to symbolize the power and the strength of the Thais. Five other statues each one representing the army, navy, air force, the police and the civilian bureaucracy can be seen surrounding the obelisk.