Bangkok traces its roots to a small trading post throughout the Ayutthaya Kingdom in the 15th century, which ultimately grew and ended up being the site of 2 capital cities: Thonburi in 1768 and Rattanakosin in 1782. Bangkok was at the heart of the modernization of Siam-- later renamed Thailand-- throughout the late 19th century, as the country dealt with pressures from the West. The city was at the center of Thailand's political struggles, throughout the 20th century, as the nation abolished absolute monarchy, adopted constitutional guideline and underwent many coups and a number of uprisings. The city grew rapidly throughout the 1960s through the 1980s and now exerts a substantial effect on Thailand's politics, economy, education, media and modern society.