Huamuang Khamen Padong and Annamese – Siamese War in 1833 – 1846

Abstract

This study aims to explore the role of Huamuang Khamen Padong and the Annamese-Siamese War during 1833 – 1846 with historical research methods. The study employs primary documents such as royal commands, historical records, and military campaign reports from Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam, supplemented with data from research papers and dissertations. The findings indicate that Huamuang Khamen Padong was integral to providing military support on land for the Siamese army, particularly during the conflicts of 1840 –1841 and 1845. Huamuang Khamen Padong played critical roles in combat, camp defense, patrol, and intelligence operations within Khmer and Vietnamese territories. Additionally, the use of elephants as a military resource significantly contributed to the victories in these wars, and these areas also served as logistical bases for displaced troops. The significance of Huamuang Khamen Padong in this conflict stemmed from several factors: 1. geographical proximity to Cambodia, 2. natural resources including manpower and elephants, and 3. the language, culture, and relationships of the leaders of these frontier towns. Recommendations for further study include examining the role of the eastern Lao towns in the Annamese-Siamese War and the utilization of elephants in warfare along the Mekong River to provide a more comprehensive and multifaceted understanding of the regional conflicts.