Date of independence, or formation date: 1953
Date when current borders were established: 1953
National day: Nov 11
Vehicle country identifying code: K
Time zone (hours plus or minus from GMT): +7
International telephone dialling code: +855
Internet country identifying code: .kh

The ancient kingdom of Cambodia emerged from French colonial rule in 1953, only to be plunged into violent civil conflict. Under the extremist Khmer Rouge, headed by the infamous Pol Pot, the country endured one of the world's most brutal totalitarian regimes. Since the withdrawal of Vietnamese troops in 1989 the country has gradually returned to relative stability. The dominating geographic feature is the Tônlé Sap, or Great Lake, which drains into the Mekong River. Over three-quarters of Cambodia is forested, with mangroves lining the coast.

From "The Financial Times World Desk Reference" © Dorling Kindersley 2004