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Read more: 1953 to 1969 Independence era Ruling Cambodia After independence a parliament was created so the monarchy no longer had absolute rule. Sihanouk recognised that the best way to rule the country was to create his own political party. His party, the "People's Socialist Party" easily won the elections to the National Assembly from 1955 to 1966. Sihanouk gained popular support but he also persuaded smaller parties to join his and tried to ban others. Cambodian communists competed in these elections but Sihanouk persecuted them afterwards, afraid that they would lead to future Vietnamese expansion into Cambodia. Influencing events The country was at peace and prospered but its location meant it couldn't escape the growing dangers along its borders and in the countryside. In the 1960s, Cambodia's neighbour Vietnam was involved in a civil war. South Vietnam was fighting against communist North Vietnam for control of the country. The United States wanted to stop the spread of communism so it became involved, helping South Vietnam. Sihanouk proclaimed Cambodia neutral but by 1965 felt that the United States was conspiring against him. French influence French was the main language used in business and government, and the school system was still based on the French model. Primary students still attended classes with monks at the pagoda. Government primary schools taught French, Khmer language, and reading, writing, maths and science. At secondary level, all classes were taught in French except Khmer language and literature, and four hours a week of English language. Definitions Independence: A country has or gains independence when it governs its own affairs and is not ruled by another country. Autocratic: Having complete power and able to make decisions without consulting others. Neutral: Not taking sides or supporting any particular view in a disagreement, war or contest.
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copyright worldvision 2003
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