Remembrance Day of King Rama V in Thailand

Memorial DayKing Chulalongkorn (Pra Chulach Klao Chaoyuhua or Rama V) inherited the throne of his father King Mongkut (or Pra Chom Klao). He was born on 20 September 1853 and was the first son of Queen Ramphai Ramampiron (Thepsirindra) and the 9th surviving son of King Mongkut. King Rama V came to the throne in 1868 at the age of 15 under Chao Phraya Sri Suriyawong as regent.

King Rama V

King Rama V's long 42-year reign was an era of deep reform and the formation of Thailand as a modern nation. The king studied the Western system of government, befriended many powers such as Great Britain, France, America and Russia, and sent royal children to study in the West.

The King's reforms, which affected almost every aspect of Thai life, included the abolition of slavery, the expansion of communications through the construction of railways, the establishment of post offices and telegraphs, and the establishment of a system of ministries in 1892. To this should be added the establishment of a number of public institutions, in particular in the field of health and education.

His death on October 23, 1910, was a great loss for the entire nation, as he was one of the most worthy and beloved kings, often referred to as "Somdej Pra Piyamaharaj." Moreover, the Thai people also believed in the King’s miraculous ability to bring good fortune and prosperity to the man who pays his respects. Therefore, the portrait of this king can be seen in almost every institution or private firm. Thais from all walks of life lay wreaths to his equestrian statue in Bangkok's King's Square and to his statues installed in the province.