# Plaek Phibunsongkhram > Prime Minister of Thailand, 1938–44 and 1948–57 (1897–1964) **Wikidata**: [Q152777](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q152777) **Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Plaek_Phibunsongkhram) **Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/plaek-phibunsongkhram ## Summary Plaek Phibunsongkhram was a Thai military officer and politician who served as Prime Minister of Thailand for two non-consecutive terms (1938-1944 and 1948-1957). His leadership marked significant periods in Thai modernization and political development during the mid-20th century, particularly during World War II and the post-war reconstruction era. ## Biography - Born: July 14, 1897 - Nationality: Thailand - Education: Chulachomklao Royal Military Academy (inception: 1887) - Known for: Two terms as Prime Minister of Thailand (1938-1944 and 1948-1957) - Employer(s): Government of Thailand (as Prime Minister and military officer) - Field(s): politics, military ## Contributions Phibunsongkhram served as Prime Minister of Thailand during two crucial periods in the nation's modern history. During his first term (1938-1944), he led Thailand through World War II, initially aligning with the Axis powers and later transitioning to an alliance with the Allies. His second term (1948-1957) focused on post-war reconstruction and continued modernization efforts in Thailand. As a military officer, he was educated at Chulachomklao Royal Military Academy and held the rank of Field Marshal. His leadership significantly influenced Thailand's political landscape during the mid-20th century, establishing long-lasting administrative and cultural policies. ## FAQs **When was Plaek Phibunsongkhram Prime Minister of Thailand?** Plaek Phibunsongkhram served as Prime Minister of Thailand for two terms: from 1938 to 1944 and again from 1948 to 1957. **What military training did Plaek Phibunsongkhram receive?** Plaek Phibunsongkhram was educated at Chulachomklao Royal Military Academy, which was established in 1887 and serves as Thailand's primary institution for military education. **What role did Plaek Phibunsongkhram play during World War II?** During his first term as Prime Minister (1938-1944), Plaek Phibunsongkhram led Thailand through World War II, initially aligning with the Axis powers before transitioning to an alliance with the Allies as the war progressed. **What awards did Plaek Phibunsongkhram receive?** Phibunsongkhram received numerous honors including the Order of the Nine Gems (established 1861), Order of Chula Chom Klao (1873), Order of the White Elephant (1861), Order of the Crown of Thailand (1869), Order of the Rising Sun, 1st class (1875), Order of Sikatuna (1953), Order of the Paulownia Flowers (1888), and Order of the German Eagle (1937). **What was Plaek Phibunsongkhram's nationality?** Plaek Phibunsongkhram was Thai, having served as the Prime Minister of Thailand during two separate periods in the mid-20th century. ## Why They Matter Plaek Phibunsongkhram matters as one of the most influential political figures in modern Thai history. His leadership during the transformative years of World War II and the immediate post-war period shaped Thailand's political trajectory and national identity. As Prime Minister, he implemented significant modernization policies and navigated the complex international relationships during a global conflict. His dual terms in power represent crucial periods when Thailand transitioned from an absolute monarchy under the Rattanakosin Kingdom to a constitutional monarchy, establishing patterns of governance that continue to influence Thai politics today. His ability to maintain Thai sovereignty during turbulent times and guide the country through post-war reconstruction cemented his legacy as a pivotal figure in Southeast Asian history. ## Notable For - Serving as Prime Minister of Thailand for two non-consecutive terms (1938-1944 and 1948-1957) - Leading Thailand through World War II with strategic alliances that evolved as the conflict progressed - Implementing significant modernization policies during his tenure - Holding the rank of Field Marshal in the Thai military - Receiving numerous honors including the Order of the Nine Gems, Order of Chula Chom Klao, and Order of the White Elephant - Playing a key role in Thailand's transition from absolute monarchy to constitutional governance - Being educated at Chulachomklao Royal Military Academy, Thailand's primary military education institution - Maintaining Thai sovereignty during a period of global conflict - Contributing to post-war reconstruction and development efforts in Thailand ## Body ### Early Life and Education Plaek Phibunsongkhram was born on July 14, 1897. He pursued military education at Chulachomklao Royal Military Academy, an institution established in 1887 that serves as Thailand's primary military academy. His military training would form the foundation of his later political career, providing him with the discipline and strategic thinking that would characterize his leadership style. ### Military Career Phibunsongkhram's professional career began in 1914, marking the start of a long involvement in military affairs. Through his military service, he rose to the rank of Field Marshal, demonstrating his capabilities as a military leader. His military background gave him significant influence in Thai politics and positioned him for future leadership roles in the government. ### Political Ascendancy Phibunsongkhram entered politics during a period of significant change in Thailand. The Rattanakosin Kingdom, which had ruled Thailand from 1782 to June 24, 1932, was transitioning to modern Thailand under the Chakri dynasty. This period of transformation created opportunities for military officers like Phibunsongkhram to assume political leadership positions. ### First Prime Ministership (1938-1944) Phibunsongkhram's first term as Prime Minister spanned from 1938 to 1944, a period that coincided with World War II. During this time, he implemented various modernization policies and navigated the complex international relationships of the war. Initially, he aligned Thailand with the Axis powers, a strategic decision that evolved as the conflict progressed. This alignment demonstrated his pragmatic approach to international diplomacy during a global crisis. ### World War II Leadership During World War II, which lasted from 1939 to 1945, Phibunsongkhram led Thailand through one of the most challenging periods in the nation's history. His leadership during this global conflict required careful balancing of international relationships while maintaining Thai sovereignty. The war years tested his diplomatic skills and ultimately shaped his political legacy. ### Post-War Period After World War II, Thailand continued its development as a modern constitutional monarchy. Phibunsongkhram's first term ended in 1944, but he remained a significant political figure during the immediate post-war years as Thailand established its new constitutional framework following the dissolution of the absolute Rattanakosin Kingdom. ### Second Prime Ministership (1948-1957) Phibunsongkhram returned to power in 1948, serving as Prime Minister again until 1957. His second term focused on post-war reconstruction and continued modernization efforts in Thailand. This period represented a more stable phase in Thailand's development as the country consolidated its constitutional monarchy structure and focused on economic and social development. ### Political Philosophy and Policies Throughout his terms as Prime Minister, Phibunsongkhram implemented policies that aimed to modernize Thailand and strengthen its position internationally. His leadership style reflected both his military background and political pragmatism, emphasizing national development and sovereignty in an increasingly globalized world. ### International Relations Phibunsongkhram's approach to international relations was characterized by strategic alliances that served Thailand's interests. During World War II, this meant aligning with the Axis powers initially before transitioning to an alliance with the Allies. In the post-war period, he worked to establish relationships that would benefit Thailand's development and security. ### Legacy Plaek Phibunsongkhram's legacy includes his significant role in Thailand's transition from absolute monarchy to constitutional governance and his leadership during a transformative period in the nation's history. His two terms as Prime Minister spanned critical years when Thailand established its modern political identity and navigated global conflicts that reshaped Southeast Asia. ### Personal Life Phibunsongkhram was known by several names throughout his life, including Luang Phibunsongkhram and Phibul. He passed away on June 11, 1964, leaving behind a complex legacy as both a military leader and political figure in Thai history. ### Honors and Recognition Throughout his career, Phibunsongkhram received numerous honors that recognized his contributions to Thailand. These included the Order of the Nine Gems (established 1861), Order of Chula Chom Klao (1873), Order of the White Elephant (1861), Order of the Crown of Thailand (1869), Order of the Rising Sun, 1st class (1875), Order of Sikatuna (1953), Order of the Paulownia Flowers (1888), and Order of the German Eagle (1937). These awards reflected both his domestic importance in Thailand and his international relationships. ### Historical Context Phibunsongkhram's political career unfolded against the backdrop of significant historical changes in Thailand and the wider world. His leadership coincided with the end of the Rattanakosin Kingdom in 1932 and the establishment of modern Thailand as a constitutional monarchy. His terms also encompassed World War II and the early Cold War period, both of which had profound impacts on Southeast Asia's political landscape. ## References 1. [Source](https://www.khaosodenglish.com/politics/2020/06/19/face-to-face-with-1932-revolt-leaders-in-their-eternal-rest/) 2. general catalog of BnF 3. CiNii Research 4. BnF authorities 5. Virtual International Authority File 6. Brockhaus Enzyklopädie 7. Munzinger Personen 8. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013 9. [Source](https://catalog.archives.gov/id/81145625) 10. IdRef 11. [Source](http://purl.org/pressemappe20/beaconlist/pe)