Chakri dynasty

The Chakri dynasty have ruled Thailand since king Taksin was declared mad in 1782. The name Chakri (Thai จักรี) derives from the title Phya Chakri, given to Rama I while he was a general in Taksin's army. In actuality, Thai people refer to this era as "Rattanakosin."

Naming

During the reign of King Rama III, his predecessors were usually referred as "the first king" and "the middle king". However in this naming he would have been called "the last king", which was considered a bad omen and thus not used. Instead he posthumously gave them the above names, and himself the name "Nangklao". The name "Rama" was introduced by King Vajiravudh, but his successor rejected it. Even though never readopted officially, it is the common naming in Thailand. The name Mongkut in English texts usually refers to Rama IV, but in Thailand it is usually understood as the reigning title of Rama VI, Phra Mongkut Klao Chaoyuhua.

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See also: Rama (King of Thailand)

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