The Amazing Elephant

Elephants are amazing! Because of their intelligence, size and strength, they are revered and loved all over the world. Yet, to many people of Thailand, they have an even more special importance as they played an integral role in the history and industry of their country.

Long ago, elephants were used by the Thai King in wars to defend Thailand against the Burmese intruders. Used to haul weapons and supplies, the elephant not only provided provisions to soldiers, but once covered with armor stood majestically against invaders. Once Thailand was secured, the elephant was then used to clear land and in logging to collect Teak.

With their ability to rapidly clear forests and strength to move heavy logs, these animals became the "workhorse" used by the Thai to build an industry that would allow Thailand to thrive in later years. In modern times, the elephant is still used in logging due to the fact that they, of course, do not require petrol for fuel and, therefor, do not emit harmful emissions into the environment.

Although the elephant's strength has helped build a nation, they are also revered for their great symbolism. Elephants have often been associated with fortune and wisdom, and it is not uncommon for people to pay so that they can pass beneath an elephants body in order to gain some luck. Even the monarch of Thailand, then Siam, used the elephant as the symbol of his monarchy.

The white elephant, which is rarely found in nature, can still be found on the flag that is flown on His Thai Majesty's ships. As one can see, the elephant is a proud symbol for a nation owing much to such their grand nature, and it's easy to see why.