AYUTTHAYA HISTORICAL RESEARCH
HISTORICAL EVENTS - 1300 CE
1314 - Birth of Prince U-Thong, the future first king of Ayutthaya. [Reference: The Rise of Ayutthaya - Charnvit Kasetsiri (1976) - page 157]
1324 - Construction of the statue of Phra Phanan Choeng (presently at Wat Phanan Choeng - Ayutthaya). [Ref: The Royal Chronicles of Ayutthaya - Richard D. Cushman (2006) - page 10 / Source: Luang Prasoet]
1325 - Phya U-Thong, father-in-law of Ramathibodi I, acquired a considerable part of the dominions once ruled over by King Ramkhamhaeng of Sukhothai. These dominions include Nakhon Sri Thammarat, Ratburi and Phetburi, as well as Tenasserim and Tavoy, which had been lost to Sukhothai in 1318, and which U-Thong had annexed around 1325. [Reference: A History of Siam - W.A.R. Wood - Chap IV - page 63]
1331 - Prince U-Thong married a princess of Suphanburi. [Reference: The Rise of Ayutthaya - Charnvit Kasetsiri (1976) - page 157]
1346/7 - Death of King Lo Thai of Sukhothai and throne ascendance of King Ngua Nam Thom (reign 1346/7) [Reference: Wyatt, David K. (2003) - Thailand, A short history (2nd Ed.) - Silkworm Books]
1346/7- Death of King Ngua Nam Thom of Sukhothai and throne ascendance of Mahathammaracha I (Luethai) (reign 1346/7- ca. 1368/74). Prince U-Thong invaded the Sukhothai dominions, and Chai Nat was captured but returned under unknown conditions. [Reference: A History of Siam - W.A.R. Wood (1924) - page 65/ Wyatt, David K. (2003) - Thailand, A short history (2nd Ed.) - Silkworm Books]
1350 - Founding of Ayutthaya and commencement of the Kingdom of Siam. Construction of the Phaithun Palace, the Phaichayon Palace and the Aisawan Palace in the area now occupied by Wat Phra Sri Sanphet. [Reference: The Royal Chronicles of Ayutthaya – Cushman (2006) – page 10]
Reign of King Ramathibodhi I (1351–1369)
1351 - Throne ascendancy of King Ramathibodi I (U-Thong) on 4 March 1351 - 1st King of Ayutthaya. King Ramathibodi installed his brother-in-law, Prince Phangoa, as governor of Suphanburi, with the title of Borommaracha Thao. His son, Prince Ramesuan, was appointed governor of Lopburi. [Reference: The Royal Chronicles of Ayutthaya - Cushman (2006) - King Ramathibodhi I, 1351-1369 - page 10]
1352 - Ayutthaya attacked Angkor. King Ramathibodhi I sent his son, Prince Ramesuan with an army to Angkor after a new King - Boromma Lamphongsaraja - succeeded the Cambodian throne. Prince Ramesuan's vanguard got routed, fled and collided with his main army. Prince Phangoa (the later King Borommaracha I) of Suphanburi was asked to assist. He defeated the Cambodians and the Khmer capital was taken in 1353 after a siege of one year. As the King of Cambodia died during the siege, a vassal king was set up. A large number of Khmer inhabitants were moved to Ayutthaya. [Reference: The Royal Chronicles of Ayutthaya - Cushman - page 11 / A History of Siam - W.A.R. Wood - Chap IV - page 65] Thai scholars put this campaign against Cambodia in the year 1369. [Reference: The Rise of Ayutthaya - Charnvit Kasetsiri (1976) - page 123]
1353 - Construction of Wat Phutthaisawan at the Wiang Lek Royal Residence. It is from this place that U-Thong sent out his men to find a suitable location to establish the city of Ayutthaya. It was one of the customs of the Northern Kingdom of Sukhothai to turn the Royal residence into a temple. King Borommatrailokanat would later follow this example in giving the location of his palace to establish Wat Phra Sri Sanphet. [Reference: The Royal Chronicles of Ayutthaya - Cushman (2006) - page 11 / The Rise of Ayutthaya - Charnvit Kasetsiri (1976) - page 136]
Angkor Wat was initially constructed as a Hindu temple dedicated to the god Vishnu by King Suryavarman II (reign 1113–1150 CE) in Yasodharapura, the capital of the Khmer Empire. The temple's name was Vrah Visnuloka or Parama Visnuloka, meaning "the sacred dwelling of Vishnu." It was designed to represent Mount Meru, the sacred five-peaked mountain of Hindu, Jain, and Buddhist cosmology and considered the centre of all the physical, metaphysical and spiritual universes (at the centre of the temple stands a quincunx of towers). Angkor Wat is oriented to the west. The temple was transformed into a Buddhist temple towards the end of the 12th century under Jayavarman VII (reign 1181–1218 CE).
1354 - During the reign of King Sam Fang Kaen (1411-1441), who ruled Chiang Mai, lightning struck the chedi of Wat Phra Kaeo and cracked it open. A Buddha image gilded with gold leaf on black lacquer was found inside the broken chedi. When that black lacquer came off, a beautiful jade figure was concealed within it. The statue had been moved by various state rulers to be placed in their respective capitals as a symbol of dominance, including Lampang, Chiang Rai and Vientiane, before finally being enshrined in Bangkok's Wat Phra Kaeo during the reign of King Rama I of the Rattanakosin period.
1356 - Construction of the Mangkhala Phisek hall at the old palace site in Ayutthaya. [Reference: The Royal Chronicles of Ayutthaya - Cushman (2006) - page 10]
1363 - Construction of Wat Pa Kaeo, presently called Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon. King Ramathibodhi I ordered the construction of a chedi and vihara at the cremation site of Prince Keo and Prince Thai (probable sons from one of his three wives) who died from cholera and gave it the name of Pa Kaeo. [Reference: The Royal Chronicles of Ayutthaya - Cushman (2006) - page 11]. William Wood put the death of the two princes in 1357 (his source is not known). [Reference: A History of Siam - W.A.R. Wood (1924) - page 65]
Ca. 1368/74 - Death of King Maha Thammaracha I (Luethai) of Sukhothai and throne ascendance of Maha Thammaracha II (reign ca. 1368/74 - ca. 1398) [Reference: Wyatt, David K. (2003) - Thailand, A short history (2nd Ed.) - Silkworm Books]
1369 - The Hongwu Emperor (Ming dynasty), Zhu Yuanzhang, bestowed a present of some silk and a copy of the Imperial Almanac of China upon the Court of Siam in 1369. The Siamese had been long at war with the Maliyi, or Maliurh (Malays?), but both nations laid aside their feud and submitted to China. The chronicles of the Ming speak of the country by its present Chinese name. Lien Lo, or Tsien Lo, or in Cantonese, Tsim-Lo. [Bowring, John (1857) - The Kingdom and People of Siam Vol I - London, John W. Parker and Son, West Strand - page 72]
1369 - Death of King Ramathibodhi I and throne ascendancy of King Ramesuan - 2nd King of Ayutthaya. [Reference: The Royal Chronicles of Ayutthaya - Cushman (2006) - page 11]
Reign of King Ramesuan (First reign 1369-1370)
1369 - Construction of Wat Phra Ram. [Reference: The Royal Chronicles of Ayutthaya - Cushman (2006) - page 11]
26 Aug 1370 - China envoy to Siam. The Ming Shi-lu, also known as the Veritable Records of the Ming Dynasty (1368–1644), mentions that Lu Zong-jun and others were sent to take a proclamation of instruction for the country of Siam. [Ref: Wade, Geoffrey Philip. Southeast Asia in the Ming Shi-lu: an open access resource, Singapore: Asia Research Institute and the Singapore E-Press. National University of Singapore. http://epress.nus.edu.sg/msl/reign/hong-wu/year-3-month-8-day-5.]
1370 - Throne ascendancy of King Borommaracha I - 3rd King of Ayutthaya. King Ramesuan was unpopular. A year after his accession to the throne, disturbances broke out, which he could not quell. His ministers urged him to abdicate in favour of his uncle, Prince Phangoa, at that time, the governor of Suphanburi. The matter was amicably arranged. Prince Phangoa became King under the name of Borommaracha I, while King Ramesuan reverted to his former position as Governor of Lopburi. [Reference: A History of Siam - W.A.R. Wood (1924) - page 70]
Wat Phra Ram is situated outside the Grand Palace compound to the east. Construction of the monastery started in the reign of Ramathibodhi I, and the finalisation occurred in 1369 CE in the reign of King Ramesuan. The royal cremation ceremony of Ramathibodhi I took place here. The temple, through the years, became ruinous, and King Borom Trailokanat (reign 1448-1488) renovated the entire temple. An extensive renovation was again made in 1741 CE during the reign of King Borommakot (1733-1758). Only a large prang and a swamp called “Bueng Phra Ram” remain. The area is currently used as a public park.
Reign of King Borommaracha I (1370-1388)
1371 - King Borommaracha I invades Sukhothai and captures several northern towns. [Reference: The Royal Chronicles of Ayutthaya - Cushman (2006) - page 11]
30 Oct 1371 - Siamese envoy to China. The Ming envoy, Lu Zong-jun, returned from Siam. The Siamese minister Zhao Yan-gu-man and others who had been sent by the king of Siam accompanied Zong-jun and came to Court. They offered as tribute trained elephants, a six-legged tortoise, and local products. It was Imperially commanded that silk gauzes and patterned fine silks interwoven with gold thread be conferred upon the king of Siam and that their envoys be each given a set of clothing. [Geoff Wade, translator, Southeast Asia in the Ming Shi-lu: an open access resource, Singapore: Asia Research Institute and the Singapore E-Press, National University of Singapore, http://epress.nus.edu.sg/msl/reign/hong-wu/year-4-month-9-day-22-0]
9 Jan 1372 - Siamese envoy to China. The Siamese minister Nai Si-li Chai-la-shi-xi-li and others who had been sent by the king of Siam came to Court, presented a gold-leaf memorial, and offered local products as tribute in felicitation on the coming New Year's Day. When the Siamese envoys were about to return home, it was Imperially commanded that the calendar Da Tong Li as well as patterned fine silks interwoven with gold thread, be conferred upon the king of Siam, and that sets of clothing, patterned fine silks and other silks, as appropriate, be conferred upon the envoys. [Geoff Wade, translator, Southeast Asia in the Ming Shi-lu: an open access resource, Singapore: Asia Research Institute and the Singapore E-Press, National University of Singapore, http://epress.nus.edu.sg/msl/reign/hong-wu/year-4-month-12-day-3]
18 Feb 1372 - Siamese envoy to China. The Siamese minister Bao-cai-fu and others who had been sent by Siam presented a memorial and offered as tribute black bears, white monkeys, sappan wood, pepper, cloves and other goods. It was Imperially commanded that silk gauzes and patterned fine silks interwoven with gold thread be conferred upon the king and that clothing and other goods, as appropriate, be conferred upon the Siamese envoys, the interpreter Li Qing and their subordinates. [Geoff Wade, translator, Southeast Asia in the Ming Shi-lu: an open access resource, Singapore: Asia Research Institute and the Singapore E-Press, National University of Singapore, http://epress.nus.edu.sg/msl/reign/hong-wu/year-5-month-1-day-14]
1372 - King Borommaracha I continues his annexations and seizes Nakhon Phangkha [Nakhon Sawan?/Hankha District Chai Nat?] and Saeng Charao [Chachoengsao?]. [Reference: The Royal Chronicles of Ayutthaya - Cushman (2006) - page 12 The Vickery Chronicle]
1373 - King Borommaracha I invests the city of Chakangrao (Kamphaeng Phet), the western outpost of the Sukhothai dominions. Phraya Sai Kaeo, one of the rulers, was killed in battle, while another ruler, Phraya Khamhaeng, was able to flee back into the fortified city. The Ayutthaya army returned without capturing the city. [Reference: The Royal Chronicles of Ayutthaya - Cushman (2006) - page 12]
29 Oct 1373 - Siamese envoy to China. The envoy sent by Can-lie Si-ning, the elder sister of the king of Siam, presented a gold-leaf memorial and offered a tribute of local products to the Empress which were refused. [Geoff Wade, translator, Southeast Asia in the Ming Shi-lu: an open access resource, Singapore: Asia Research Institute and the Singapore E-Press, National University of Singapore, http://epress.nus.edu.sg/msl/reign/hong-wu/year-6-month-10-day-13]
7 Nov 1373 - Siamese envoy to China. The Siamese minister Zhao Wei-zhi and others who had been sent by Siam presented a memorial and offered tribute of local products. It was ordered that the calendar Da Tong Li for the following year as well as patterned fine silks and silk gauzes interwoven with gold thread be conferred upon the ruler of Siam, and that fine silks, silk gauzes, boots and socks be conferred upon the envoy. [Geoff Wade, translator, Southeast Asia in the Ming Shi-lu: an open access resource, Singapore: Asia Research Institute and the Singapore E-Press, National University of Singapore, http://epress.nus.edu.sg/msl/reign/hong-wu/year-6-month-10-day-22]
30 Nov 1373 - Siamese envoy to China. The Siamese envoy Nai Wen-li-luo, who had again been sent by Can-lie Si-ning, the elder sister of the king of Siam, offered tribute of local products to the Empress. The Minister of Rites Niu Liang informed of this it was ordered that this be refused, that patterned fine silks and clothing be conferred upon the envoy and that he be sent home. [Geoff Wade, translator, Southeast Asia in the Ming Shi-lu: an open access resource, Singapore: Asia Research Institute and the Singapore E-Press, National University of Singapore, http://epress.nus.edu.sg/msl/reign/hong-wu/year-6-month-11-day-16]
1373 - Ayutthaya established the town of Tenasserim in 1373 and built the pagoda of Wottsheng, finalised in 1380, still standing on the ruins of Old Tenasserim. [Ref: English Intercourse with Siam in the 17th century - John Anderson (1890) - Page 3.] Tennaserim, renamed Tanintharyi, has in the old settlement area a stone pillar. I presume this pillar was the Wottsheng pagoda of John Anderson. Sutherland, an assistant superintendent of Telegraphs in Lower Burma, wrote: "About a quarter of a mile behind the present village, there is a massive stone pillar, several tons in weight, roughly cut and covered over with a thatch roof, which is said to have once been the centre of Tenasserim city and was planted at the founding of it by the Siamese in 1373 A.D. The story is told by the natives that, when the pit was dug to plant this stone in, a live woman was first thrown in and the pillar planted on the top of her. This woman is now the guardian angel of the city. In its prosperous days, it was surrounded by a brick and mud wall, enclosing about four square miles of land. The foundations are still traceable in places, but the wall itself has been dismantled, land the serviceable bricks used elsewhere for building purposes, principally in jails for local culprits. [Royal Scottish Geographical Society (1898). "South Tenasserim and the Mergui Archipelago". Scottish Geographical Magazine. 1898. vol 14: pp. 453-4.]
Chakangrao was geographically located in the lower north on the east bank of the Ping River. Chakangrao was built around 1157 CE by the Cambodians as a military city. In the Sukhothai era, King Maha Thammaracha I (Li Thai) (reign 1346/7-1368/74? CE) moved the political and administrative centre to Nakhon Chum on the west bank of the Ping River. After the death of King Li Thai) in 1371 CE, Chakangroa became the centre again. Chakangrao had the same town planning concept as Sukhothai and Si Satchanalai, with separate zones for religious sites within and outside town limits. The structures are usually large and made of laterite. Old fortifications mark the boundary of the rectangular town area, measuring 300-700 metres wide and 2,200 metres long. King Boromracha I (reign 1370-1388 CE) combined the two cities of Chakangrao and Nakhon Chum and called it Kamphaeng Phet. The name of Kamphaeng Phet (Diamond Wall) was indicated for the first time in 1397 CE on a stone inscription.
7 Dec 1373 - Siamese envoy to China. The envoy Nai Si-li Chai-la-shi-xi-ti, who had been sent by Siam, presented a gold-leaf memorial and offered local products as tribute. It was Imperially commanded that eight bolts each of silk gauzes and patterned fine silks interwoven with gold thread be conferred upon the king and that four bolts each of fine silks and silk gauzes, clothing, boots and socks be conferred upon the envoy. The interpreter and the subordinates were also given rewards. At this time, the king of Siam, Can-lie Zhao Pi-ya [King Ramesuan], had become incompetent and unable to rule. The people of the country thus promoted his paternal uncle Can-lie Bao Pi-ya Si-li Duo-luo-lu [King Borommaratcha I] to manage the affairs of the state. This memorial was presented to of this. [Geoff Wade, translator, Southeast Asia in the Ming Shi-lu: an open access resource, Singapore: Asia Research Institute and the Singapore E-Press, National University of Singapore, http://epress.nus.edu.sg/msl/reign/hong-wu/year-6-month-11-day-23]
6 Jan 1374 - Siamese envoy to China. The minister Nai Zhao Zhan-duo-luo and others who had been sent by Can-lie Bao Pi-ya Si-li Duo-luo-lu (King Borommaratcha I), the king of the country of Siam, presented a memorial to express gratitude for Imperial kindness and offered tribute of local products. The envoys also offered their own tribute. The emperor ordered that the tribute offered by the envoys themselves be refused. [Geoff Wade, translator, Southeast Asia in the Ming Shi-lu: an open access resource, Singapore: Asia Research Institute and the Singapore E-Press, National University of Singapore, http://epress.nus.edu.sg/msl/reign/hong-wu/year-6-month-intercalary-11-day-23]
10 Feb 1374 - Siamese envoy to China. The minister Po Kun Gang-xin and others who had been sent by Can-lie Bao Pi-ya Si-li Duo-luo-lu (King Borommaratcha I), the king of Siam, presented a gold memorial of felicitation for the coming New Year's Day, offered tribute of local products, and presented a map of their country. It was Imperially commanded that eight bolts each of patterned fine silks, silk gauzes and variegated silks, all interwoven with gold thread, be conferred upon the king of the country, that two bolts each of fine silk and silk gauzes as well as a set of clothing be conferred upon Po Kun Gang-xin, and that the deputy envoy Chen Ju-cheng and those subordinate to him be given fine silks, silk gauzes or cloth, as appropriate. [Geoff Wade, translator, Southeast Asia in the Ming Shi-lu: an open access resource, Singapore: Asia Research Institute and the Singapore E-Press, National University of Singapore, http://epress.nus.edu.sg/msl/reign/hong-wu/year-6-month-12-day-29]
9 May 1374 - Siamese envoy to China. The minister Sha-li-ba, who had been sent by Siam, came to the Ming Court and offered tribute of local products. He said that his country had sent him, together with Nai Si-li Chai-la-xi-shi-ti, to offer tribute. In the eighth month of the previous year (Aug/Sep 1373), when his ship arrived in the Wu-zhu Sea, he met strong winds that destroyed the ship. He then drifted to Hai-nan. When he arrived there, the officials collected the floating remnants of the sappan wood, laka wood, "tula" cloth and other products which he had brought to offer in tribute. The Secretariat officials then memorialized. The emperor expressed surprise that he was without a memorial and that while he claimed that his ship had overturned, he still had the local products. Therefore, the Emperor suspected that he was a fan merchant and ordered that the tribute be refused. An Imperial order was sent to the Secretariat and the Ministry of Rites, saying: "In ancient times, the various marquis sent to the Son of Heaven a small embassy every year and a large mission every three years. Outside of China, the fan states and distant countries only had to come to Court once every reign. The local products they offered in tribute were only intended to express their loyalty and respect. Korea is quite close to China and is quite familiar with culture, rites and music. It is different from other fan. Thus, it was ordered to send an embassy but once every three years and if there was a desire to come only once each reign, we would accede to their wish. As for the other newly attached countries, such as Champa, Annam, Xi-yang Suo-li (Alt: Xi-yang, Suo-li), Java, Bo-ni, San-fo-qi, Siam (Hu) and Cambodia, frequent tribute missions cost them much in effort and expenses, and I do not wish that on them. Have them act in accordance with the ancient statutes. There is no need for them to come so frequently. Transmit despatches to these countries for their information." [Geoff Wade, translator, Southeast Asia in the Ming Shi-lu: an open access resource, Singapore: Asia Research Institute and the Singapore E-Press, National University of Singapore, http://epress.nus.edu.sg/msl/reign/hong-wu/year-7-month-3-day-27]
1374 - (Approx) Throne ascendancy of Maha Thammaracha II of Sukhothai. [Reference: The Rise of Ayudhya - Charnvit Kasetsiri (1976) - App A]
Feb/Mar 1375 - Siamese envoy to China. In this month, envoys sent by Siam came to offer tribute. [Geoff Wade, translator, Southeast Asia in the Ming Shi-lu: an open access resource, Singapore: Asia Research Institute and the Singapore E-Press, National University of Singapore, http://epress.nus.edu.sg/msl/reign/hong-wu/year-8-month-1-day]
5 Mar 1375 - At this time, the Secretariat and the Ministry of Rites memorialized: "The mountains and rivers of the external yi should be appended to those in the various provinces for the purposes of sacrifice. It is appropriate that the sacrifices for the mountains and rivers of Annam, Champa, Cambodia, Siam and Suo-li be carried out together with those in Guang-xi. [Geoff Wade, translator, Southeast Asia in the Ming Shi-lu: an open access resource, Singapore: Asia Research Institute and the Singapore E-Press, National University of Singapore, http://epress.nus.edu.sg/msl/reign/hong-wu/year-8-month-2-day-3]
1375 - King Borommaracha I seized Phitsanulok, the second capital of the Kingdom of Sukhothai. The ruler of the city, Khun Sam Kaeo, is captured, and a large number of Phitsanulok's inhabitants are forcibly moved to Ayutthaya. [Reference: The Royal Chronicles of Ayutthaya - Cushman (2006) - page 12]
4 Nov 1375 - Siamese envoy to China. The minister Po Kun Gang-xin, who had been sent by the king of Siam, presented a memorial and offered tribute. His deputy was Zhao Zhan-duo-luo. Previously, when their ships reached Champa, they met great winds and lost contact with each other. Zhao Zhan Duo-luo arrived at the capital in the eighth month (Alt: 10th month) and presented the goods offered in tribute. On this day, Po Kun Gang-xin arrived and he presented a gold-leaf memorial. It was Imperially commanded that patterned fine silks, silk gauzes and variegated silks interwoven with gold thread, clothing, and other goods, as appropriate, be conferred upon the king and the envoys. [Geoff Wade, translator, Southeast Asia in the Ming Shi-lu: an open access resource, Singapore: Asia Research Institute and the Singapore E-Press, National University of Singapore, http://epress.nus.edu.sg/msl/reign/hong-wu/year-8-month-10-day-11, accessed January 22, 2019]
4 Dec 1375 - Siamese envoy to China. The envoy Nai Bao-lun, who had been sent by Zhao Bo-luo-ju (Alt: Zhao Chi-luo-ju), the heir to the prince/king of old Ming-tai in Siam, presented a gold-leaf memorial and offered tribute of local products. It was Imperially commanded that six bolts each of patterned fine silks, variegated silks and silk gauze interwoven with gold thread be conferred upon Zhao Bo-luo-ju (Alt: As above), that two bolts each of silks and silk gauzes, a set of clothing and boots and socks be conferred upon Nai Bao-lun, and that appropriate rewards be conferred upon the interpreter and the subordinates. [Geoff Wade, translator, Southeast Asia in the Ming Shi-lu: an open access resource, Singapore: Asia Research Institute and the Singapore E-Press, National University of Singapore, http://epress.nus.edu.sg/msl/reign/hong-wu/year-8-month-11-day-11]
Wat Phra Sri Ratana Maha That commonly called Wat Yai or Wat Phra Sri is situated on the east bank of the Nan River and is said to date from 1357 AD. The vihara of the temple houses what is regarded as the most beautiful and graceful Buddha statue in Thailand, the large bronze statue of Phra Phuttha China Rat in the Sukhothai style. Phra Phuttha Chinarat was moulded in the attitude of subduing evil during the reign of Phra Maha Thammaracha I (King Li Thai) of Sukhothai. Its unique feature is the frame-like halo, a symbol of spiritual radiance. The Buddha image was cast at the same time as two other famous images, the Phra Phuttha China Sri and Phra Sri Sasada, at present located at Wat Bowon Niwet in Bangkok.
1376 - King Borommaracha I makes another attempt to take Chakangrao. The Governor of Chakangrao received assistance from the Governor of Nan and his army. They set up an ambush for the Ayutthaya army but failed. The troops of the Governor of Nan were scattered and slaughtered. The city of Chakangrao could resist, and King Borommaracha I returned to Ayutthaya. [Reference: The Royal Chronicles of Ayutthaya - Cushman (2006) - page 12 / A History of Siam - W.A.R. Wood (1924) - page 72]
1377 - Foundation of the twin cities Mueang Phrom (Phrom Buri) and Mueang In (In Buri) along the banks of the Chao Phraya River, located in the province of Sing Buri. [Reference: Bhamorabutr, Abha (1981) - Ancient cities in Thailand.] [My comment: probably established a couple of years earlier.]
3 Oct 1377 - Phra Nakhon In, the later King Intharacha visits China. Zhao Lu-qun Ying, who had been sent by his father, the king of Siam, presented a gold-leaf memorial and offered tribute of elephants, elephant tusks, pepper, and products of the sappan tree. The emperor ordered that Wang Heng, a vice director in the Ministry of Rites, be sent with an Imperial proclamation and a seal of office to confer upon him. Cai Shi-min, a courier in the Secretariat, was to be his deputy. The proclamation read: "How can one rule a state and treat the people as one's children without the mandate from Heaven and the great grace of the Earth! Although there are differences between the Chinese and the Yi, Heaven is most pleased when all places are at peace. If a ruler can manifest the love of the One on High for all living things and can harmonize man and the spirits, his prosperity will reach his sons and grandsons, and for generations, there will be no break in the line. Can-lie Bao Pi-ya Si-li Duo-luo-lu (King Borommaratcha I), since you inherited the throne, within, you have regulated your family, and without, you have maintained good relations with your neighbours. Moreover, you have on several occasions sent officials to indicate that you are a subject of the Court and to offer tribute. In terms of present-day fan kings, it can be said that you are worthy and virtuous. How can your reputation fail to spread to the various fan! This year in Autumn, your envoy came to Court and offered tribute of elephant tusks. I am now sending an envoy to go and instruct you and am especially conferring upon you the seal of the king of the country of Siam and a set of clothing. You should do well in soothing the people of your land as thereby you will long see much prosperity." Heng and so on departed from the capital together with Zhao Lu-qun Ying. Fine silks, clothing and travelling expenses were conferred upon all, and then they were sent off. [Geoff Wade, translator, Southeast Asia in the Ming Shi-lu: an open access resource, Singapore: Asia Research Institute and the Singapore E-Press, National University of Singapore, http://epress.nus.edu.sg/msl/reign/hong-wu/year-10-month-9-day-1]
1378 - King Borommaracha I went to seize Sukhothai's frontier city, Chakangrao, again. The King of Sukhothai, Maha Thammaracha II, was present at this time. Realising the hopelessness of further resistance, he surrendered the city and submitted to King Borommaracha I. Mahathammaraja II was not deposed but was left to reign over a portion of his former dominions as a tributary state of Ayutthaya, with his capital at Phitsanulok. The western part of the Sukhothai dominions, including Chakangrao, was annexed to Ayutthaya. King Borommaracha, I combined the two cities of Chakangrao and Nakhon Chum and called it Kamphaeng Phet. The name of Kamphaeng Phet was indicated for the first time in 1397 on a stone inscription. [Reference: The Royal Chronicles of Ayutthaya - Cushman (2006) - page 12 / A History of Siam - W.A.R. Wood (1924) - page 72]
29 Mar 1378 - Siamese envoy to China. The minister Zhao Zhi-ban and others who had been sent by the country of Siam presented a memorial and offered tribute of local products. It was Imperially commanded that fine silks, other silks and clothing be conferred upon the envoys. [Geoff Wade, translator, Southeast Asia in the Ming Shi-lu: an open access resource, Singapore: Asia Research Institute and the Singapore E-Press, National University of Singapore, http://epress.nus.edu.sg/msl/reign/hong-wu/year-11-month-3-day-1]
1 Jan 1379 - Siamese envoy to China. The envoy sent by Siam came to offer tribute. [Geoff Wade, translator, Southeast Asia in the Ming Shi-lu: an open access resource, Singapore: Asia Research Institute and the Singapore E-Press, National University of Singapore, http://epress.nus.edu.sg/msl/reign/hong-wu/year-11-month-12-day-13]
8 Jan 1379 – Chinese Embassy to Siam. The 311 officers and soldiers who had been sent on an embassy to Siam returned to the capital. A total of 1,561 ding of paper money was conferred upon them. [Geoff Wade, translator, Southeast Asia in the Ming Shi-lu: an open access resource, Singapore: Asia Research Institute and the Singapore E-Press, National University of Singapore, http://epress.nus.edu.sg/msl/reign/hong-wu/year-11-month-12-day-20]
1 Dec 1379 - Siamese envoy to China. The minister Ya-la-er Wen-zhi-li and others who had been sent by Can-lie Bao Pi-ya Si-li Duo-luo-lu (King Borommaratcha I), the king of the country of Siam, presented a memorial and offered tribute of local products. It was ordered that patterned fine silks and silk gauzes interwoven with gold thread be conferred upon the king and his son, the Su-men-bang Prince Zhao Lu-qun Ying (Phra Nakhon In, later King Intharatcha). Fine silks, other silks and clothing, as appropriate, were conferred upon Ya-la-er and the others. [Geoff Wade, translator, Southeast Asia in the Ming Shi-lu: an open access resource, Singapore: Asia Research Institute and the Singapore E-Press, National University of Singapore, http://epress.nus.edu.sg/msl/reign/hong-wu/year-12-month-10-day-22]
27 Jul 1380 - Siamese envoy to China. The envoy sent by Siam offered tribute of local products. [Geoff Wade, translator, Southeast Asia in the Ming Shi-lu: an open access resource, Singapore: Asia Research Institute and the Singapore E-Press, National University of Singapore, http://epress.nus.edu.sg/msl/reign/hong-wu/year-13-month-6-day-25]
6 Mar 1381 - Siamese envoy to China. The minister Chen Zi-ren, and others who had been sent by the country of Siam presented a memorial and offered local products as tribute. It was ordered that 240 ding of paper money be conferred upon Zi-ren. [Geoff Wade, translator, Southeast Asia in the Ming Shi-lu: an open access resource, Singapore: Asia Research Institute and the Singapore E-Press, National University of Singapore, http://epress.nus.edu.sg/msl/reign/hong-wu/year-14-month-2-day-10]
Wat Chiang Man is Chiang Mai's oldest temple and probably dates from 1296 CE. The temple was the residence of King Mengrai, who founded Chiang Mai and is noteworthy for a chedi supported by rows of elephantine buttresses and a small ancient Buddha image, Phra Kaeo Khao. The Phra Kaeo Khao or Crystal Buddha was made in Lavo (Lop Buri). Legend asserted that the white crystal Buddha belonged to Cham Thewi, a mythical Queen and the first ruler of Haripunchai (Lamphun), a daughter of the King of Lavo, supposed to have lived in the 7th century CE. Cham Thewi came to Haripunchai in 679 CE and reigned for 54 years. King Mengrai took the image from Haripunchai in 1281 CE to Chiang Mai.
27 Jul 1382 - Siamese envoy to China. The envoy Ban-zhi-san and others, who had been sent by the country of Siam, presented a memorial and offered tribute of local products. It was ordered that clothing and paper money be conferred upon Ban-zhi-san and the others and that they be sent home. [Geoff Wade, translator, Southeast Asia in the Ming Shi-lu: an open access resource, Singapore: Asia Research Institute and the Singapore E-Press, National University of Singapore, http://epress.nus.edu.sg/msl/reign/hong-wu/year-15-month-6-day-17]
27 Feb 1383 - Siamese envoy to China. The envoy sent by the country of Siam (Hu) offered tribute of local products. It was ordered that fine silks, other silks and paper money, as appropriate, be conferred upon the king and his envoy. [Geoff Wade, translator, Southeast Asia in the Ming Shi-lu: an open access resource, Singapore: Asia Research Institute and the Singapore E-Press, National University of Singapore, http://epress.nus.edu.sg/msl/reign/hong-wu/year-16-month-1-day-25]
24 May 1383 - Chinese envoy to Siam. Envoys were sent to confer tally-slip books on the various countries of Siam, Champa and Cambodia. These were sent in order that when Chinese envoys arrived at these countries in future, the country could verify their status by fitting their tally-slip together with that of the envoy. If the tallies did not match, the envoy would be spurious, and they were then to arrest him and inform. [Geoff Wade, translator, Southeast Asia in the Ming Shi-lu: an open access resource, Singapore: Asia Research Institute and the Singapore E-Press, National University of Singapore, http://epress.nus.edu.sg/msl/reign/hong-wu/year-16-month-4-day-22]
21 Sep 1383 - Chinese envoy to Siam. Envoys were sent to confer upon the kings of the countries of Champa, Siam, and Cambodia, 32 bolts each of patterned fine silks interwoven with gold thread and 19,000 pieces of porcelain. [Geoff Wade, translator, Southeast Asia in the Ming Shi-lu: an open access resource, Singapore: Asia Research Institute and the Singapore E-Press, National University of Singapore, http://epress.nus.edu.sg/msl/reign/hong-wu/year-16-month-8-day-24]
23 Jan 1384 - Siamese envoy to China. The envoys sent by ......, Can-lie Bao Pi-ya Si-li Duo-luo-lu (Borommaratcha I), the king of Siam, presented memorials and offered tribute of local products. Patterned fine silks and clothing, as appropriate, were conferred upon them. [Geoff Wade, translator, Southeast Asia in the Ming Shi-lu: an open access resource, Singapore: Asia Research Institute and the Singapore E-Press, National University of Singapore, http://epress.nus.edu.sg/msl/reign/hong-wu/year-17-month-1-day-1]
30 Aug 1384 - Siamese envoy to China. The minister Zhao Lu Nai Ai-guan and others who had been sent by the country of Siam presented a memorial and offered tribute of local products. It was Imperially commanded that clothing and paper money, as appropriate, be conferred upon Zhao Lu and the others. [Geoff Wade, translator, Southeast Asia in the Ming Shi-lu: an open access resource, Singapore: Asia Research Institute and the Singapore E-Press, National University of Singapore, http://epress.nus.edu.sg/msl/reign/hong-wu/year-17-month-8-day-14]
10 Feb 1385 - Siamese envoy to China. The envoys sent by the countries of Korea, Siam and Ryukyu offered local products in tribute and presented memorials of felicitation. [Geoff Wade, translator, Southeast Asia in the Ming Shi-lu: an open access resource, Singapore: Asia Research Institute and the Singapore E-Press, National University of Singapore, http://epress.nus.edu.sg/msl/reign/hong-wu/year-18-month-1-day-1]
25 Feb 1385 - Siamese envoy (10 Feb) to China. Paper money, as appropriate, was conferred upon the envoy Zhao Lu Ba-ai and others from the country of Siam. [Geoff Wade, translator, Southeast Asia in the Ming Shi-lu: an open access resource, Singapore: Asia Research Institute and the Singapore E-Press, National University of Singapore, http://epress.nus.edu.sg/msl/reign/hong-wu/year-18-month-1-day-16]
18 Mar 1386 - Siamese envoy to China. The envoy Zhao Yi-ren and others who had been sent by the king of the country of Siam offered tribute of pepper, sappan wood, frankincense, and other products. It was ordered that patterned fine silks and clothing be conferred upon the envoys and that they be sent home. [Geoff Wade, translator, Southeast Asia in the Ming Shi-lu: an open access resource, Singapore: Asia Research Institute and the Singapore E-Press, National University of Singapore, http://epress.nus.edu.sg/msl/reign/hong-wu/year-19-month-2-day-18]
11 Oct 1386 - Siamese envoy to China. The Ming Emperor's birthday....Also, the envoy Mao-luo and others who had been sent by the country of Siam presented a congratulatory memorial and offered tribute of local products. Fine silks, paper money and clothing, as appropriate, were conferred upon them. [Geoff Wade, translator, Southeast Asia in the Ming Shi-lu: an open access resource, Singapore: Asia Research Institute and the Singapore E-Press, National University of Singapore, http://epress.nus.edu.sg/msl/reign/hong-wu/year-19-month-9-day-18]
Wat Luang in the old city of Phrae is an ancient and principal temple built when Phrae was established. The monastery was named after Pho Khun Luang Phon, who led a migration party in 828 CE to settle here and built this temple not long after that. He also made a large Buddha image named “Phra Chao Saen Luang” as the principal Buddha image of the city. At a later period, Phra That Chai Chang Kam, the first chedi of Phrae, was constructed behind the hall of Phra Chao Saen Luang. In front of this hall stands “Pratu Khong”, the old gate that was only used by the city’s rulers and believed to be the sanctuary of the spirits of all the past rulers of Phrae. Several restoration works have taken place. Prominent landmarks include Wihan Luang Phon Nakhon, the oldest image hall, where Phra Jao Saen Luang's image is enshrined, and Phra That Luang Chai Chang Kham, a Chiang Saen-style chedi housing the Holy Relic brought over from Bago, Myanmar.
1387 - King Kü Na, the 9th King of Chiang Mai, died around 1387. His son, Saen Müang Ma, succeeded him. An uncle of the latter, Prince Phrom, attempted to seize the throne but failed and requested the aid of Ayutthaya. King Borommaracha I, seeing an opportunity to extend his power beyond the Sukhothai dominions, dispatched an army to attack Chiang Mai. A fierce battle occurred at Saen Sanuk near Chiang Mai, which the Ayutthayan army lost, and they withdrew through Muang Li. The Luang Prasoet chronicle of Ayutthaya put this event in 1387. Prince Phrom reconciled with his nephew, to whom he presented the Phra Singh or Phra Sihing, a sacred Buddha image obtained by force from Kamphaeng Phet. [Reference: A History of Siam - W.A.R. Wood (1924) - page 73]
1387 - Siam sent thirty elephants, with two attendants to each. [Bowring, John (1857) - The Kingdom and People of Siam Vol I - London, John W. Parker and Son, West Strand - page 73]
10 Sep 1387 - Siamese envoy to China. The country of Siam offered as tribute 10,000 jin of pepper and 100,000 jin of sappan wood. The minister Kun Si-li Ji-la-shi-zhi-ti and others presented king-fisher feathers and aromatics. [Geoff Wade, translator, Southeast Asia in the Ming Shi-lu: an open access resource, Singapore: Asia Research Institute and the Singapore E-Press, National University of Singapore, http://epress.nus.edu.sg/msl/reign/hong-wu/year-20-month-7-day-28]
25 Sep 1387 - Chinese envoy to Siam. Envoys were sent to the countries of Cambodia and Siam. A silver seal plated in gold, 28 bolts of fine silks and other silks interwoven with gold thread and 12 bolts of fine silks and other silks decorated with coloured embroidery were to be conferred upon the king of the country of Cambodia. Fourteen bolts of patterned fine silks were to be conferred upon the king's consort. Twenty bolts of patterned fine silks were to be conferred upon the king of the country of Siam, while 14 bolts were to be conferred upon the king's consort. Rewards, as appropriate, were to be conferred upon the attendant ministers. [Geoff Wade, translator, Southeast Asia in the Ming Shi-lu: an open access resource, Singapore: Asia Research Institute and the Singapore E-Press, National University of Singapore, http://epress.nus.edu.sg/msl/reign/hong-wu/year-20-month-8-day-13]
14 Nov 1387 - Siamese envoy to China. The minister Kun Si-li Ji-la-shi-zhi-ti and others who had been sent by the country of Siam departed to return home. It was Imperially commanded that 90 bolts of variegated silks and materials for medicinal preparations be conferred upon the king of the country and that clothing and paper money, as appropriate, be conferred upon Kun Si-li Ji-la-shi-zhi-ti and so on. [ Geoff Wade, translator, Southeast Asia in the Ming Shi-lu: an open access resource, Singapore: Asia Research Institute and the Singapore E-Press, National University of Singapore, http://epress.nus.edu.sg/msl/reign/hong-wu/year-20-month-10-day-3]
26 Feb 1388 - Siamese envoy to China. As Siam had come to offer tribute, some people of Yong-jia County in Wen-zhou purchased gharu-wood and other products from the envoys. At this time, there was a strict prohibition on contacts with foreign yi. People of the village made a report of this occurrence, and the Provincial Surveillance Commission advised that the offenders should be executed in public. The Emperor said: "Yong-jia is situated on the route by which the Siamese come. The people traded with the envoys because they passed through. This is an ordinary occurrence and is not to be equated with having contact with foreign yi. Release them." [Geoff Wade, translator, Southeast Asia in the Ming Shi-lu: an open access resource, Singapore: Asia Research Institute and the Singapore E-Press, National University of Singapore, http://epress.nus.edu.sg/msl/reign/hong-wu/year-21-month-1-day-19]
1388 - King Borommaracha I went to the North to assist the Governor of Kamphaeng Phet against Prince Phrom, ruler of Chiang Saen, who, with his army, occupied the city. Kamphaeng Phet was taken. The king became ill and returned but died on the way back to Ayutthaya. [Reference: The Royal Chronicles of Ayutthaya - Richard D. Cushman (2006) - page 12 / Source: Luang Prasoet.] 1388 - Prince Thong Lan, the 17-year-old son of King Borommaracha I, ascends the throne - 4th King of Ayutthaya. [Reference: A History of Siam - W.A.R. Wood (1924) - page 74]
Reign of King Thong Lan (1388)
1388 - Former King Ramesuan, son of Ramathibodhi I, descends to Ayutthaya from Lopburi with an army. He succeeds in entering the palace and arresting King Thong Lan. The latter is executed at the Khok Phraya Monastery. King Thong Lan reigned for seven days. King Ramesuan re-ascends the throne. [Reference: The Royal Chronicles of Ayutthaya - Richard D. Cushman (2006) - page 12 / Source: Phan Canthanumat, British Museum, Reverend Phonnarat & Phra Cakkraphatdiphong.]
1388 - King Ramesuan (reign 1369-1370/1388-1395) gave notice of King Borommaracha I's death in 1388 and prayed to the Chinese Court to be invested as his successor. A eunuch, high in office, was sent by the Hongwu Emperor to perform the ceremony of investment of the Siamese King. [Reference: Bowring, John (1857) - The Kingdom and People of Siam Vol I - London, John W. Parker and Son, West Strand - page 73]
Wiang Kum Kam is an ancient city located in Saraphi District, around 3 km south of the southeastern corner of the city of Chiang Mai and the left bank of the Ping River. According to the chronicles and archaeological evidence, King Mangrai (reign 1261–1311 CE) relocated the capital of the Lan Na Kingdom from Ngoenyang in Chiang Rai to Wiang Kum Kam on the banks of the Ping River in 1288. By 1296, King Mangrai had chosen a new site for the capital of the Lan Na Kingdom on the higher opposite bank. Wiang Kum Kam flourished during the reign of the Mangrai dynasty until the late 16th century. After Chiang Mai was conquered by the Burmese in 1558, Wiang Kum Kam became deserted. Years of flooding after that left the ancient city buried meters underground. In 1984, the Fine Arts Department discovered remnants of the old town around Wihan Kan Thom at Wat Chang Kham. Excavation afterwards led to the discovery of many ruins.
Reign of King Ramesuan (Second reign 1388-1395)
12 Feb 1389 - Siamese envoy to China. The envoy Mao-luo and others who had been sent by the Su-men-bang Prince Zhao Lu-qun Ying (Phra Nakhon In, the later King Intharatcha), heir to the king of the country of Siam, offered tribute of horses, sappan wood, cloves and other products. It was ordered that clothing and paper money, as appropriate, be conferred upon Mao-luo and the others. [Geoff Wade, translator, Southeast Asia in the Ming Shi-lu: an open access resource, Singapore: Asia Research Institute and the Singapore E-Press, National University of Singapore, http://epress.nus.edu.sg/msl/reign/hong-wu/year-22-month-1-day-16]
7 Jul 1389 - Siamese envoy to China. The two countries of Cambodia and Siam offered tribute of local products. [Geoff Wade, translator, Southeast Asia in the Ming Shi-lu: an open access resource, Singapore: Asia Research Institute and the Singapore E-Press, National University of Singapore, http://epress.nus.edu.sg/msl/reign/hong-wu/year-22-month-6-day-14]
4 Nov 1389 - Siamese envoy to China. The envoy Si-li Tan-la-er-si-di and others who had been sent by the country of Siam presented a memorial and offered tribute of fan horses, elephant tusks, sulphur, pepper, laka-wood and other products. It was Imperially commanded that clothing and paper money, as appropriate, be conferred upon the envoys. [Geoff Wade, translator, Southeast Asia in the Ming Shi-lu: an open access resource, Singapore: Asia Research Institute and the Singapore E-Press, National University of Singapore, http://epress.nus.edu.sg/msl/reign/hong-wu/year-22-month-10-day-16]
1390 - Sukhothai under King Maha Thammaracha II attacks Chiang Mai forces - King Thammaracha of Sukhothai requested the aid of the King of Chiang Mai to throw off his allegiance with Ayutthaya. The young King of Chiang Mai, Saen Müang Ma (r.1385-1411), came down at the head of an army to assist the vassal, but this would appear to have been merely a ruse, for the Chiang Mai army was suddenly attacked by night by the Sukhothai forces, and dispersed with great loss. The young King of Chiang Mai himself only just managed to escape. Reference: History of Laos - M.L. Manich Jumsai (2000) - page 54 / A History of Siam - W.A.R. Wood (1924) - page 75]
26 Apr 1390 - Siamese envoy to China. The minister Si-li Tan-la-er-si-di and others who had been sent by the country of Siam presented a memorial and offered as tribute sappan wood, pepper, laka-wood and other products, weighing a total of 171,880 jin. It was Imperially commanded that patterned fine silks, clothing, and paper money, as appropriate, be conferred upon the envoys. [Geoff Wade, translator, Southeast Asia in the Ming Shi-lu: an open access resource, Singapore: Asia Research Institute and the Singapore E-Press, National University of Singapore, http://epress.nus.edu.sg/msl/reign/hong-wu/year-23-month-4-day-11]
1391 - Ayutthaya applied for the standard weights and measures of China, which the Great Ming Court granted. [Reference: Bowring, John (1857) - The Kingdom and People of Siam Vol I - London, John W. Parker and Son, West Strand - page 73]
5 May 1391 - Siamese envoy to China. The envoy Li Nai-ming and others, who had been sent by the country of Siam, presented 40 elephant tusks and two live turtles. Clothing and paper money, as appropriate, were conferred upon Nai-ming and the others. [Geoff Wade, translator, Southeast Asia in the Ming Shi-lu: an open access resource, Singapore: Asia Research Institute and the Singapore E-Press, National University of Singapore, http://epress.nus.edu.sg/msl/reign/hong-wu/year-24-month-4-day-1]
12 Feb 1393 - Siamese envoy to China. The minister Li San-qi-de, who had been sent by Can-lie Bao Pi-ya, the king of the country of Siam, presented a gold-leaf memorial and offered tribute of local products. It was Imperially commanded that they be banqueted in the Interpreter's Institute and that patterned fine silks and paper money, as appropriate, be conferred upon all of them. [Geoff Wade, translator, Southeast Asia in the Ming Shi-lu: an open access resource, Singapore: Asia Research Institute and the Singapore E-Press, National University of Singapore, http://epress.nus.edu.sg/msl/reign/hong-wu/year-26-month-1-day-1]
1393 - The King of Cambodia, Kodom Bong, invades Chonburi and Chantabun districts and removes 7000 of the population back to Cambodia. The Khmer Pongsa Voda recorded this invasion in 1373. [Reference: A History of Siam - W.A.R. Wood (1924) - page 76 / www.geocities.com/khmerchronology - data retrieved on 24 April 2009)]
1393 - King Ramesuan assembled an army and advanced to the Khmer capital, Angkor Thom. The Cambodian forces were routed, and the King of Cambodia escaped by boat his final fate was not recorded. The Crown Prince was captured, and a grandson of King Kodom Bong, named Sri Suriyo Phawong, was set up as a vassal King under the tutelage of the Siamese General Phya Jai Narong, who remained in Cambodia with a garrison of five thousand men. No less than 90,000 Cambodians were taken away as prisoners to Siam. (According to Cambodian history, this invasion took place in A.D. 1357) [Reference: A History of Siam - W.A.R. Wood (1924) - page 76]
Wat Pa Sak in Chiang Saen. Called initially Wiang Hiran Nakhon Ngoen Yang, it served as the main town before King Mengrai established Chiang Rai as the capital in 1262. Traces of old double city walls and many other antiquities remain within and outside the district town. According to an ancient chronicle, the precursor of Chiang Saen was built in 545 CE in an area called Yonok by Tai migrants. No reliable written history of the city existed until the arrival of King Mengrai in the 13th century.
21 Jan 1394 - Siamese envoy to China. The envoy Mao Gou, who had been sent by the country of Siam, came to offer tribute of local products. [Geoff Wade, translator, Southeast Asia in the Ming Shi-lu: an open access resource, Singapore: Asia Research Institute and the Singapore E-Press, National University of Singapore, http://epress.nus.edu.sg/msl/reign/hong-wu/year-26-month-12-day-19]
11 May 1394 - The rituals for the feudatory countries when coming to Court and offering tribute were revised. At this time, of the yi in the four directions who had come to Court and offered tribute, in the East there were Korea and Japan, and in the South there were Siam, Ryukyu, Champa, Cambodia, Annam, Java, Xi-yang, Suo-li, San-fo-qi, Bo-ni, Bai-hua, Lan-bang, Pahang, Dan-ba and Xu-wen-da-na, a total of 17 countries. Of the yi in the South-west... those under Yun-nan included the military and civilian prefecture of Yao-an, the eight prefectures of Yuan-jiang, Li-jiang, Jing-dong, Chu-Xiong, He-qing, Xun Dian, Da-li and Lin-an, the three pacification superintendencies of Ping-mian, Che-li and Ba-bai, the two subprefectures of Yao-zhou and Deng-zhou, the three native offices of Hai-dong, Bin-ju and Lesser Yun-nan, and the two counties of Guang-tong and Xi-e ... The emperor felt that the former ceremonies were troublesome and thus ordered that they be revised. Whenever the kings of the feudatory countries came to Court, they were first to be entertained in the Interpreter's Institute by an official of the Ministry of Rites. The following day, they were to wear their country's costume or, if Court clothes had been conferred upon them, they were to wear the Court clothes and have an audience in the Feng-tian Hall. After bowing eight times, they would go to the Wen-Hua Hall to have an audience with the Heir Apparent. Here they would bow four times and, on meeting the Imperial princes, they would repeat this. The Imperial princes would stand to receive them and bow twice in response. The attendant officials would carry out these rituals after the feudatory king had completed them. At all banquets, the feudatory kings would be treated as being next to marquis and earls in precedence. Envoys of these feudatory countries and native officials, when coming to Court and offering tribute, would follow the usual ceremonies for audiences. [Geoff Wade, translator, Southeast Asia in the Ming Shi-lu: an open access resource, Singapore: Asia Research Institute and the Singapore E-Press, National University of Singapore, http://epress.nus.edu.sg/msl/reign/hong-wu/year-27-month-4-day-11]
1395 - Ming envoys, eunuch Zhao Da and Song Fu, led a maritime voyage to Ayutthaya (to control trade and execute political and economic control). [Ref: The Zheng He Voyages: A Reassessment - Geoff Wade (2004) - Asia Research Institute Working Paper Series No. 31./ Peng Hui, “Ming-dai Hong-wu nian-jian chu-shi Nan-yang shi-jie yan-jiu” (Research on the diplomatic missions sent to the Nan-yang during the Hong-wu reign), Dong-nan-ya yang-jiu 2004 No 1. pp. 80-86.]
1395 - Construction of Wat Phukhao Thong in the fields north of Ayutthaya. [Reference: The Royal Chronicles of Ayutthaya - Richard D. Cushman (2006) - page 14 / Source: Luang Prasoet.]
1395 - Death of King Ramesuan and throne ascendancy of King Ramaracha, a grandson of King U-Thong - 5th King of Ayutthaya. [Reference: The Royal Chronicles of Ayutthaya - Richard D. Cushman (2006) - page 14 / Source: Luang Prasoet.] Reign of King Ramaracha (1395-1409)
Reign of King Ramaracha (1395-1409)
5 Jan 1396 - Siamese envoy to China announcing the death of King Borammaratcha I. The minister Nai Po-lang-zhi-shi-ti and others who had been sent by the Su-men-bang Prince Zhao Lu-qun Ying [Phra Nakhon In, the later King Intharatcha], heir to the throne of the country of Siam, presented a memorial, offered tribute of local products and advised of the death of the country's king Can-lie Bao Pi-ya Si-li Duo-luo-lu (Borommaratcha I). It was Imperially commanded that paper money, as appropriate, be conferred upon the envoys and the interpreter Nai Shi-li Zeng. [Geoff Wade, translator, Southeast Asia in the Ming Shi-lu: an open access resource, Singapore: Asia Research Institute and the Singapore E-Press, National University of Singapore, http://epress.nus.edu.sg/msl/reign/hong-wu/year-28-month-11-day-24]
8 Feb 1396 - Chinese envoy to Siam in relation to the death of King Borommaratcha I. It was Imperially commanded that the eunuch officials Zhao Da and Zhu Fu be sent as envoys to the country of Siam (Hu) to offer sacrifices for the deceased king Can-lie Bao Pi-ya Si-li Duo-luo-lu (Borommaratcha I), to confer upon the heir, the Su-men-bang (Suphan Buri) Prince Zhao Lu-qun Ying (Phra Nakhon In, the later King Intharacha), four bolts of patterned fine silks, four bolts of silk gauzes and 40 bolts of floral cloth, and to confer upon the king's consort four bolts of patterned fine silks, four bolts of silk gauzes and 12 bolts of floral cloth. The Imperial instructions read: "Since I ascended the throne, I have ordered envoys to go beyond the borders in all directions to all states and countries. The envoys who have gone beyond the borders have set foot in 36 countries and have issued instructions in another 31. They advised of 18 large and 149 small countries with different manners and customs. Comparing them, it is found that Siam is the closest. Recently, your envoy arrived, and it was learned that the former king had passed away and that you had succeeded to the former king's cause. Your succession is appropriate for the country and has been welcomed by the people. Thus, I have sent a special envoy to offer sacrifices for the deceased and to congratulate you, king, on succeeding to the throne. When these orders arrive, you should not neglect to follow the patterns, nor engage in lustful pleasure. Thus, will you honour your outstanding predecessor and show him respect!" [Geoff Wade, translator, Southeast Asia in the Ming Shi-lu: an open access resource, Singapore: Asia Research Institute and the Singapore E-Press, National University of Singapore, http://epress.nus.edu.sg/msl/reign/hong-wu/year-28-month-12-day-29]
1396 - A high-ranking envoy [Khun Luang] from the south (likely Sukhothai, possibly Ayutthaya) came to Nan in 1396 to perform the consecration of Chao Khamtan, the ruler of Nan. The ceremony, consisting in pouring consecrated water over the head of the ruler of Nan, took place at Ta Li. After the consecration, Chao Khamtan got a severe headache and died the same night. The envoy fled, letting us suppose that the consecrated water was poisoned and the ruler of Nan thus murdered. Chao Si Canta, his son, succeeded him the same year. [Reference: The Nan Chronicle - Ratchasomphan (Sænluang.) - David K. Wyatt (1994) - SEAP Publications -page 49 (2.13)]
1397 - The rulers of Phrae attacked and captured Nan after Chao Si Canta was on the throne for one year. The eighth king of the Nan dynasty was put to death in 1397. Chao Hung, the younger brother of the king, south refuge in the Kingdom of Sukhothai at Chaliang. [Reference: The Nan Chronicle - Ratchasomphan (Sænluang.) - David K. Wyatt (1994) - SEAP Publications -page 49 (2.14)]
13 Sep 1397 - The minister Nai Po-lang-zhi-shi-ti, who had been sent by the country of Siam, presented a memorial and offered tribute of local products. [Geoff Wade, translator, Southeast Asia in the Ming Shi-lu: an open access resource, Singapore: Asia Research Institute and the Singapore E-Press, National University of Singapore, http://epress.nus.edu.sg/msl/reign/hong-wu/year-30-month-8-day-22]
On the opposite side of the Mekong to Say Fong (in today’s Thai province of Nong Khai) was an important settlement known as Wiang Khuk (also known as Meuang Khuk), a site which today still features a significant body of material evidence attesting to its importance as a Dvaravati, then Khmer, and later a Lao, city. Thai archaeologists have found Buddha images among the ruins of Wiang Khuk, which reveal styles akin to those of the important Khmer centre of Lopburi (in today's Central Thailand), suggesting that Wiang Khuk dates to the eleventh century and established at the same time as Say Fong.
18 Sep 1397 - The Ministry of Rites memorialized that the envoys and traders from the various fan countries were no longer coming to China. The Emperor said: "At the beginning of the Hong Wu reign, the various fan countries had intercourse with China. The envoys came continually, and the merchants took advantage of this situation. In recent times, such countries have totalled 30, including Annam, Champa, Cambodia, Siam, Greater Ryukyu, San-fo-qi, Bo-ni, Pahang, Bai-hua, Samudera, Xi-yang and Bengal. Making use of Hu Wei-yong's planned rebellion, San-fo-qi created discord and deceived our envoys into going there. The king of Java, hearing of this matter, admonished San-fo-qi and required it to courteously escort the envoys back to China. After this, the envoys and merchants were stopped from coming, and the thoughts of the kings of the various countries have not been reaching me. Only Annam, Champa, Cambodia, Siam and Greater Ryukyu have continued to come to Court and offer tribute as before. The king and prime minister of Greater Ryukyu have both sent their sons to receive education in China. The envoys of all fan countries have been treated with respect when they come to China, and I have not been mean in my treatment of foreign countries. However, I do not know what is in their hearts. Now, I wish to send an envoy to instruct the country of Java, but I am afraid that San-fo-qi will intercept him. I have heard that San-fo-qi is subject to Java. You, Minister of Rites, should record my wishes and send a despatch to the king of the country of Siam, ordering him to send someone to transmit it to Java for its advice." Thus, the Ministry of Rites wrote a despatch to the king of the country of Siam, noting: "Since there has been Heaven and Earth, there has been division between ruler and subject, greater and lesser. China's relationship with the yi in the four directions has, since ancient times, also been governed by ritual. Initially, after our dynasty had unified all, there were no fan who did not come to Court. Who would have thought that Hu Wei-yong would have engaged in rebellion or that San-fo-qi would have sown discord, deceived our envoys and engaged in guile! But who does not know that the king and the prime minister of Greater Ryukyu have sent their sons and younger brothers to receive our Chinese education, that the Emperor gave them winter and summer clothing and that when they were ill, he sent doctors to examine them. The Emperor's heart is greatly imbued with both benevolence and righteousness. The Emperor employs benevolence and righteousness in his treatment of the various fan countries. How could San-fo-qi and the other countries turn their backs on Heaven's grace and discard the ruler-subject relationship? They occupy a petty piece of land and want to contend with China. If the Emperor is angered, he can send a general with 100,000 men to cross the seas and mete out punishment. It would be as easy as turning the palm. How terribly unthinking they are! The Emperor has said: `Annam, Champa, Cambodia, Siam and Greater Ryukyu all fulfil their tributary functions. Only San-fo-qi obstructs our culture. The wise concern themselves with the future, and the valiant move towards virtue. But San-fo-qi, this petty country, supports evil people. Of all the countries, it can be said that this one least fears calamity!' You, king of Siam, are still able to carry out the duties of a subject. Thus the Emperor would especially appreciate it if you would pass this on to Java so that it can inform San-fo-qi of the Great Precepts of Right Conduct. San-fo-qi is a subject of Java and will trust its words. If they are able to change their ways and follow the correct path, then together with all the countries, they will be treated with propriety like before, and will not have to be filled with apprehension." [Geoff Wade, translator, Southeast Asia in the Ming Shi-lu: an open access resource, Singapore: Asia Research Institute and the Singapore E-Press, National University of Singapore, http://epress.nus.edu.sg/msl/reign/hong-wu/year-30-month-8-day-27]
18 Nov 1397 - Siamese envoy to China. The minister Nai Si-wu-luo-zhe, who had been sent by the king of the country of Siam, presented a memorial and offered tribute of local products. [Geoff Wade, translator, Southeast Asia in the Ming Shi-lu: an open access resource, Singapore: Asia Research Institute and the Singapore E-Press, National University of Singapore, http://epress.nus.edu.sg/msl/reign/hong-wu/year-30-month-10-day-29]
1398 - Death of King Mahathammaracha II of Sukhothai and throne ascendancy of Maha Thammaracha III of Sukhothai (Sai Luthai) (reign 1398-1419). [Reference: The Rise of Ayudhya - Charnvit Kasetsiri (1976) - App A / Wyatt, David K. (2003) - Thailand, A short history (2nd Ed.) - Silkworm Books]
25 Jan 1398 - Siamese envoy to China. The envoys who had been sent by Zhao Lu-qun Ying [Intharacha], the Su-men-bang (Suphan Buri] Prince of the country of Siam, offered tribute of local products in felicitation on the New Year. Paper money, as appropriate, was conferred upon the envoys. [Geoff Wade, translator, Southeast Asia in the Ming Shi-lu: an open access resource, Singapore: Asia Research Institute and the Singapore E-Press, National University of Singapore, http://epress.nus.edu.sg/msl/reign/hong-wu/year-31-month-1-day-7]
5 Jun 1398 - Siamese envoy to China. The envoy Nai Si-wu-luo-zhe, who had been sent by the country of Siam, presented tribute of local products. Paper money was conferred upon the envoy. [Geoff Wade, translator, Southeast Asia in the Ming Shi-lu: an open access resource, Singapore: Asia Research Institute and the Singapore E-Press, National University of Singapore, http://epress.nus.edu.sg/msl/reign/hong-wu/year-31-month-5-day-20]
Ta Pha Daeng Shrine is situated adjacent to a reservoir named Tra Kuan in the west and the town gate in the north, this ancient monument was known as Theparak Yai Shrine and Ta Pha Daeng Shrine. The oldest surviving Khmer building at Sukhothai, this single sanctuary tower stands on an exceptionally high base adorned with lotus moulding, which gives it imposing proportions, despite not being particularly large. It was built entirely in laterite, although the superstructure has long since collapsed. The site is now generally regarded as being from the Bayon period (13th century AD).
When the past no longer illuminates the future, the spirit walks in darkness.
(Alexis de Tocqueville)
