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00:00Why are elephants considered to be Thailand's national animal?
00:03Well, here are some reasons why.
00:05Royal symbols.
00:07Elephants have long been tied to Thai monarchy.
00:10During King Rama II's reign, the national flag featured a white elephant, revered as a royal emblem.
00:17Defenders of independence.
00:19Elephants played a key role in Thai history,
00:22such as in King Narayasawan's victory during his legendary duel,
00:26where his war elephant was honored with the title Jao Phraya Prabhongsawadee.
00:32Diplomatic icons.
00:33In King Rama V's era, bronze elephant statues were gifted to Singapore and Jakarta.
00:40Transport.
00:41Before modern vehicles, elephants were vital for travel and heavy cargo,
00:46thanks to their strength and intelligence.
00:49However, in modern times, many Thais have undervalued the significance of elephants,
00:54with many handlers exploiting their elephants for profit.