Jayavarman VII

Powerful Khmer monarch who championed Buddhism and built extensive welfare infrastructure.

Chronology: 1122 – 1218

Origins & Early Life

Jayavarman VII (Khmer: ព្រះបាទជ័យវរ្ម័នទី៧, lit. 'victory armor'), known posthumously as Mahaparamasaugata (1122–1218), was king of the Khmer Empire. He was the son of King Dharanindravarman II (r. 1150–1160) and Queen Sri Jayarajacudamani.

Pivotal Works & Achievements

He was the first Khmer king devoted to Buddhism; only one other had been a Buddhist. He built the Bayon as a monument to Buddhism. Historians generally consider Jayavarman VII the most powerful of the Khmer monarchs. His government built many projects, including hospitals, highways, rest houses, and temples. With Buddhism as his motivation, Jayavarman VII is credited with introducing a welfare state that served the Khmer people's physical and spiritual needs.

Enduring Legacy & Impact

== Defeat of the Cham and coronation == In 1177, Champa King Jaya Indravarman IV launched the battle of Tonlé Sap on the Khmer capital by sailing a fleet up the Mekong River, across Lake Tonlé Sap, and up the Siem Reap River, a tributary of the Tonle Sap. The invaders pillaged the Khmer capital of Yasodharapura and put king Tribhuvanadityavarman to death. The Chams occupied Cambodia for the next four years. Between 1177 and 1181, when he was in his mid-50s, Jayavarman came to historical prominence...

Source: Wikipedia