Problem: Thailand has never been colonized by the United States. However, Padoongpatt discusses the notion of an "informal empire" operating in Thailand. How did an informal US empire emerge in the context of Thailand post-WWII? Specifically, what are the four main factors the book mentioned that contributed to the rise of Thai-US relations and ultimately the prominence of Thai food in the US (Padoongpatt - Chapter 1)? How and why does Padoongpatt suggest that "cuisine-driven multiculturalism" is a sign of ongoing colonialization?