Sukhothai Kingdom

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Wat Sri Sawai - Day

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Thai - Seated Buddha in "Maravijaya" - Walters 542520

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Bangkok National Museum - 2017-04-22 (008)

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Sukhothai Viharn

Sukhothai Kingdom was an early kingdom in the area that is now modern Thailand. It is considered by many historians to be the first historical Thai state, establishing the foundation for culture, religion, and politics in Thailand. The kingdom existed from 1238 until 1438, with its capital at Sukhothai, in what is now the northern part of Thailand.

History

The Sukhothai Kingdom was founded in 1238 by Pho Khun Bang Klang Hao, who later became King Sri Indraditya, and his colleague Pho Khun Pha Mueang. They declared independence from the Khmer Empire, marking the beginning of the Thai people's freedom from foreign dominance. The most famous king of Sukhothai was King Ramkhamhaeng the Great, who is credited with creating the Thai alphabet and significantly expanding the kingdom's territory. Under his reign, Sukhothai is said to have been a prosperous and powerful kingdom, with a society based on paternalistic rural self-sufficiency and a government that promoted the welfare of its people.

Culture and Society

The Sukhothai period is known for its significant contributions to Thai culture, particularly in the areas of religion, art, and language. Buddhism played a central role in Sukhothai society, with the kingdom adopting Theravada Buddhism as its state religion. This had a profound influence on Thai art and architecture, as seen in the many temples and Buddha statues from the period, characterized by their graceful, sinuous lines and serene expressions.

The creation of the Thai script by King Ramkhamhaeng, which allowed for the recording of the Thai language and the propagation of Buddhism, was another significant cultural achievement. The Sukhothai era is also noted for its distinct style of pottery and ceramics.

Economy and Government

The Sukhothai Kingdom's economy was primarily based on agriculture, with rice being the main crop. Trade, both internal and with neighboring states, was also an important part of the economy. The government of Sukhothai was a form of absolute monarchy, with the king at the center of all power. However, King Ramkhamhaeng is noted for having established a paternalistic form of government that sought to ensure the welfare of its people, which was described in the famous Stone Inscription of King Ramkhamhaeng.

Decline and Legacy

The Sukhothai Kingdom began to decline in the late 14th century, as it came under the growing influence of the more powerful Ayutthaya Kingdom, which eventually absorbed Sukhothai in 1438. Despite its relatively short existence, the Sukhothai Kingdom left a lasting legacy on Thailand, particularly in terms of its cultural contributions. The ideals of benevolent rule, the importance of Buddhism, and the Thai script are all enduring aspects of Thai identity that have their roots in the Sukhothai period.

See Also

• History of Thailand
• Ayutthaya Kingdom
• Thai culture
• Theravada Buddhism