Maha Sura Singhanat (1744–1803)
Born 1744 CE, died 1803 CE.
Prince Maha Sura Singhanat (Thai: สมเด็จพระบวรราชเจ้ามหาสุรสิงหนาท, RTGS: Somdet Phra Boworaratchao Maha Surasinghanat; 1 November 1744 – 3 November 1803), born Bunma (Thai: บุญมา), was a Siamese military leader and statesman who served as the first Front Palace of the Chakri Dynasty. As the younger brother of King Rama I, he was a foundational figure in the establishment of the Rattanakosin Kingdom and played a decisive role in securing Siam's independence from Burmese incursions during the late 18th century. Rising to prominence during the Thonburi Kingdom under King Taksin, he held the title of Chao Phraya Surasi and became renowned for his fierce and tactical combat style, earning the moniker "Phraya Suea" (The Tiger Lord). Following the accession of Rama I in 1782, he was appointed the Viceroy and took up residence in the newly constructed Front Palace, where he oversaw the defense and administration of the northern provinces. His military career is defined by several critical victories that ensured the survival of the nascent Chakri state.
Text from the Wikipedia article Maha_Sura_Singhanat, licensed CC BY-SA 4.0.