Before the outbreak of World War II, Cambodia was ruled by the French colonial administration. The French had established their control over Cambodia in the late 19th century and continued to govern the country until the Japanese occupation during the war.

Under French rule, Cambodia was considered a protectorate of France and was part of French Indochina, along with Vietnam and Laos. The French introduced various administrative reforms and implemented their own laws and regulations in the country. They also heavily influenced Cambodia's political, economic, and social systems during this period.

During the 1930s, Cambodia experienced some significant changes under French rule. The French implemented policies to modernize the country and improve infrastructure. They invested in the development of transportation networks, such as railways and roads, and promoted education and healthcare services. These efforts aimed to integrate Cambodia further into the French colonial empire and exploit its resources.

However, not all Cambodians were content with French rule. There were growing nationalist sentiments and movements seeking independence from colonial powers. These movements gained momentum in the years leading up to World War II, influenced by the global shift towards decolonization.

When World War II broke out in 1939, Cambodia initially remained under French control. However, in 1941, the Japanese Empire invaded and occupied the country as part of their expansionist ambitions in Southeast Asia. The Japanese established a puppet government in Cambodia, but their rule was short-lived as they were eventually defeated by the Allied forces in 1945.

After the end of World War II, Cambodia regained its independence from colonial rule. However, the country's path to independence was not without challenges, as it faced political instability and conflicts in the following decades.

In conclusion, Cambodia was ruled by the French colonial administration immediately before World War II. The French implemented various reforms and heavily influenced Cambodia's political, economic, and social systems. However, the outbreak of the war led to the Japanese occupation of Cambodia, ending French rule temporarily.

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