DemocratParty founder Khuang Aphaiwong was briefly appointed as figurehead civilian Premier during the dictatorship of Marshal Plaek Phibulsongkram, but was the Opposition for much of the 1952-1957 period.
The DemocratParty evolved into an outspoken opponent of military involvement in politics and it was one of the major forces during Thailand's turbulent years, often in power for a short while until the next coup and subsequent episode of military dictatorship.
The party is a member of the Council of Asian Liberals and Democrats, an alliance of democratic and liberalparties from throughout the region.