Phraya Phakdi Chumphon (พระยาภักดีชุมพล)

Thai. Name of a prominent figure in Thai history during the early 19th century, who was also known as Lae (แล). He was the governor of Chaiyaphum and is remembered for his loyalty and bravery during a turbulent period marked by Prince Anuwong’s (อนุวงศ์) rebellion against the Rattanakosin Kingdom in 1826. When Prince Anuwong of Vientiane launched an attack on Nakhon Ratchasima, intending to break away from Siam, Phraya Phakdi Chumphon refused to side with the Lao forces. Instead, he raised an army and supported Khun Ying Mo (คุณหญิงโม- fig.), i.e. Lady Suranari  (fig.), and the people of Nakhon Ratchasima in their successful defense against Anuwong's forces. His refusal to align with the Lao rebels angered Prince Anuwong. After his defeat, Anuwong returned to Chaiyaphum seeking revenge. Phraya Phakdi Chumphon was captured and executed under a tamarind tree at Nong Pla Thao (หนองปลาเฒ่า). Despite his tragic death, he is remembered as a hero who stood by his people and his kingdom, and his legacy is honoured to this day. A memorial, known as the Chao Pho Phaya Lae Monument and located at the roundabout near the Provincial Government Center at the entrance to Chaiyaphum City, was established in 1975 to honour the heroic deeds of Phraya Phakdi Chumphon. 回