Taksin King of Thonburi

(1734 – 1782) came from somewhat humble stock and was of part Chinese descent. Evidently, he showed early promise as he was ‘taken under the wing’ by the ‘Prime Minister’ of the Kingdom, and received a good education. After the customary time spent as a monk he became a public official, a career that included governing a Thai province. When in 1765 the Burmese, long standing rivals, attacked Siam and Ayutthaya, Taksin was one of the leaders of the city’s military defense, After marshalling a new army the future king attacked and quickly defeated the Burmese troops garrisoning the site of Ayutthaya. Taksin also created a new capital city for Siam, In 1768 Taksin was crowned King of Siam. As well as being a military leader Taksin also oversaw the rebuilding of Siamese society. He took steps to restore the shattered economy, in part by encouraging Chinese immigration and trade. After less than two decades of rule, in 1782, his leading general and friend deposed him.