The Cambodian populace erupted with joy upon achieving independence, celebrating Prince Norodom Sihanouk as a national hero. However, for the vast majority of impoverished farmers, the newfound freedom had little impact on their subsistence lifestyles. Sihanouk was fueled by a relentless desire for public adoration and an unwavering belief that, as the architect of Cambodia’s independence, he should govern the nation. When his attempts to alter the constitution to enhance the monarchy’s power fell flat, he took everyone by surprise by abdicating in 1955 in favor of his father, Norodom Suramarit, while reclaiming the title of prince.

Capitalizing on his immense personal popularity, Sihanouk established his own political party, Sangkum Reastr Niyum, or the Popular Socialist Community (commonly referred to as Sangkum). The party won every seat in the heavily manipulated 1955 elections, and Sihanouk’s underhanded tactics ensured that Sangkum remained uncontested in the subsequent elections two years later. Following the death of King Suramarit in 1960, the monarchy was effectively dissolved, and Sihanouk resumed the role of head of state, though he continued to be known as “Prince Sihanouk” rather than king.

Sihanouk was both diligent and innovative, even producing several films that celebrated traditional Cambodian culture and values. However, his arrogance and domineering nature made collaboration challenging. Many right-wing intellectuals, whom he viewed as rivals, mysteriously vanished during this time. Simultaneously, he experimented with socialist ideas and often aligned himself with leftist policies.

In educational institutions, left-leaning educators and future Khmer Rouge leaders, including Saloth Sar (later known as Pol Pot) and Ieng Sary, ascended to prominent positions within the Communist Party by the early 1960s. In 1963, in yet another of Sihanouk’s policy reversals, a government crackdown on known communists forced Saloth Sar to flee Phnom Penh, embarking on a path as a full-time revolutionary. Alongside numerous other members of the Cambodian communist movement, he sought training and support in Vietnam and China, where he was shaped by communist forces.

As Sihanouk navigated the complexities of leadership, the political landscape of Cambodia was shifting, setting the stage for future conflicts and transformations within the nation.