THE KINGDOM OF LANCHANG AND COLLAPSE OF THE KINGDOM OF LANCHANG

Abstract

The objectives of this research were 1) to study the historical background of Lanchang Kingdom, 2) the political and government systems and 3) the fall of Lanchang hang Kingdom. It was a Qualitative research. Tools used in the research were in-depth interviews, focus group discussions, and behavior observations. Key informants consisted of 30 experts from the 3 different fields; History, Politics and Government, and Sociology. 10 experts of each field were selected. The obtained data were presented by the descriptive analysis method.

          The findings of the study were as follows:

          1) Lanchang Kingdom was the ancient Lao kingdom located in the basin of Mekong River in all area including some part of northeastern Thailand. It had prosperity in many areas such as politics and government, culture, and Buddhism. Lanchang Kingdom was established in Khun Lo period in 757. It had prosperity and declination for many years until in 1778 it was divided into 3 kingdoms; Luang Prabang, Vientiane and Champassak. The Kingdom of Siam defeated three of them and then in 1893 France took over the Kingdom of Lanchang - the left bank of the Mekong River (Laos). It was considered the end or the collapse of the Lanchang Kingdom since then.

          2) The Lanchang Kingdom governed the kingdom by using the Ayasee regime divided into 4 levels; 1) Jao Muang (Governor) had power of administration over  Uphahad, Rajwong, Rajput, 2) Uphahad was a vice governor served as the counselor of the governor and perform duties on behalf of the governor, 3) Rajwong was the representative of the Uphahad responsible for litigation and judging of all disputes, and 4) Rajput was responsible for helping the government as assigned by the governor as well as performing the duties about religious affairs, farms, roads and taxation.

          3) The Collapse of Lanchang Kingdom was from many causes such as disunion, Anuwong's Rebellion or Lao–Siamese War, expanding the power of France on the basis of the Mekong River, usurpation, conflicts among royalties, population immigration, and invasion from other states. In 1893, France took over the Kingdom of Lanchang - the left bank of the Mekong River (Laos). This made Lanchang Kingdom decline and it was divide into 2 countries; Laos and Thailand (some part of northeastern Thailand).