Sarit Thanarat

Sarit Thanarat was a Thai general and politician who served as the 11th Prime Minister of Thailand from 1959 until his death in 1963. He was a key figure in Thai politics during the Cold War, and his government received significant support from the United States. Sarit Thanarat's rule was marked by a mix of authoritarianism and modernization efforts, with a focus on economic development and infrastructure projects, including the construction of the Mekong River bridge and the expansion of Don Mueang International Airport. He also played a crucial role in shaping Thailand's foreign policy, particularly in relation to the Vietnam War and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations.

● Early Life and Education

Sarit Thanarat was born in Bangkok, Siam, to a family of Mon descent. He received his primary education at the Suankularb Wittayalai School and later attended the Chulachomklao Royal Military Academy, where he graduated in 1929. Sarit Thanarat's early life was influenced by his family's connections to the Thai monarchy and the Thai military, including his uncle, Phraya Phahol Pholphayuhasena, who served as the Prime Minister of Thailand from 1933 to 1938. Sarit Thanarat's education was also shaped by his time at the École spéciale militaire de Saint-Cyr in France, where he studied alongside other prominent Thai military officers, including Phibunsongkhram and Thanat Khoman.

● Military Career

Sarit Thanarat's military career began in the late 1920s, when he joined the Royal Thai Army as a second lieutenant. He quickly rose through the ranks, becoming a key figure in the Thai military during the 1940s and 1950s. Sarit Thanarat played a significant role in the Thai coup d'état of 1947, which overthrew the government of Thawan Thamrongnawasawat and paved the way for the rise of Phibunsongkhram to power. He also served as the Commander-in-Chief of the Royal Thai Army from 1954 to 1957, during which time he oversaw the modernization of the Thai military and its involvement in the First Indochina War. Sarit Thanarat's military career was marked by his relationships with other prominent Thai military officers, including Thanat Khoman and Praphas Charusathien, as well as his interactions with foreign leaders, such as Dwight D. Eisenhower and John F. Kennedy.

● Premiership

Sarit Thanarat became the Prime Minister of Thailand in 1959, following a coup d'état that overthrew the government of Thanat Khoman. During his premiership, Sarit Thanarat implemented a range of policies aimed at modernizing Thailand's economy and infrastructure, including the construction of the Bangkok-Chiang Mai railway and the expansion of Suvarnabhumi Airport. He also played a key role in shaping Thailand's foreign policy, particularly in relation to the Vietnam War and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations. Sarit Thanarat's government received significant support from the United States, including economic and military aid, and he maintained close relationships with American leaders, such as John F. Kennedy and Lyndon B. Johnson. Sarit Thanarat's premiership was also marked by his interactions with other regional leaders, including Lee Kuan Yew of Singapore and Sukarno of Indonesia.

● Policies and Legacy

Sarit Thanarat's policies and legacy are complex and multifaceted. On the one hand, he is credited with implementing a range of modernization efforts, including the expansion of Thailand's education system and the development of the country's infrastructure. He also played a key role in shaping Thailand's foreign policy, particularly in relation to the Vietnam War and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations. On the other hand, Sarit Thanarat's rule was marked by authoritarianism and repression, including the suppression of political opposition and the restriction of civil liberties. His government also faced criticism for its handling of corruption and human rights issues, including the treatment of ethnic minorities and the suppression of student protests. Sarit Thanarat's legacy continues to be debated among Thai historians and politicians, with some viewing him as a key figure in Thailand's modernization and others criticizing his authoritarian tendencies and human rights record.

● Personal Life

Sarit Thanarat was known for his charismatic personality and his ability to build relationships with other leaders, including American presidents and regional leaders. He was also a skilled politician who was able to navigate the complex world of Thai politics with ease. Sarit Thanarat was married to Thanpuying Vivek Thanarat, and the couple had several children together. He was also known for his interests in Thai culture and traditional medicine, and he was a patron of the Thai Red Cross Society and the Thai Boy Scouts.

● Death and Funeral

Sarit Thanarat died on December 8, 1963, at the age of 55, due to complications from liver disease. His death was met with widespread mourning in Thailand, and he was given a state funeral with full military honors. Sarit Thanarat's funeral was attended by Thai royalty, including King Bhumibol Adulyadej and Queen Sirikit, as well as by foreign leaders, including American ambassador Graham Martin. Sarit Thanarat's legacy continues to be felt in Thailand today, and he remains an important figure in the country's history and politics. Category:Prime Ministers of Thailand