King Rama V (Chulalongkorn)

King Rama V, or Chulalongkorn, was a highly influential monarch of Thailand (1848–1910) known for modernizing the country. He reformed outdated institutions, such as the legal system, bureaucracy, and education, and abolished slavery. Chulalongkorn worked to preserve Thai independence during Western colonial expansion by strengthening diplomatic relations and avoiding colonization. He also promoted infrastructure development, including roads and railways, and modernized the military. His leadership laid the foundation for Thailand’s transition into a more centralized, modern nation-state, earning him lasting respect and the nickname "Father of Thai Modernization."