 |
Damrong RatchanubabThai statesman, founder of the country's modern education system and provincial government system
Date of Birth: 21.06.1862
Country:  Thailand |
Content:
- Damrong Rajanubhab, Prince Disvankumaan
- Military Service and Political Career
- Decline of Influence and Retirement
- Exile and Return
- Legacy
Damrong Rajanubhab, Prince Disvankumaan
Early Life and EducationPrince Damrong Rajanubhab was born on June 21, 1862, in Bangkok as Phra Ong Chao, the son of King Mongkut (Rama IV) and one of his consorts. He initially received education from private tutors before attending a special school at the palace in Bangkok established by his half-brother, King Rama V.
Military Service and Political Career
From 1880 to 1887, Damrong served in the army. In 1887, he became Deputy Commander-in-Chief and was appointed Minister of Education. Damrong later implemented administrative reforms, merging smaller provinces into larger regions and reducing provincial autonomy. He also introduced mandatory education for civil servants. During this period, Damrong was considered the second most powerful figure in the country after the king.
Decline of Influence and Retirement
Following the death of Rama V in 1910, Damrong's influence waned. He retired in 1915 and devoted himself to historical research. He established the Royal Institute to oversee the National Library and museums and became its first president.
Exile and Return
After the revolution of 1932, Damrong went into exile in Penang, Malaysia. In 1942, he was permitted to return to Bangkok, where he passed away on December 1, 1943.
Legacy
In recognition of his contributions to educational and administrative reforms in Thailand, Damrong Rajanubhab became the first Thai to be included in UNESCO's List of Most Deserving Persons in 1962, on the occasion of his 100th birthday.
