The Konbaung Dynasty and the Loss of Independence
- King Mindon (r. 1853–1878)
- Reformer who modernized the army, encouraged trade, and established Mandalay as the royal capital.
- Modernization Efforts
- Built roads, introduced a new currency, and sent missions to Europe to modernize Burma’s economy and administration.
- King Thibaw (r. 1878–1885)
- Young and inexperienced ruler facing internal divisions and growing British pressure.
- British Ambitions
- Britain wanted access to Burmese teak, oil, and trade routes into China.
- Reasons for Loss of Independence
- Political instability, weak leadership, and economic rivalry with British India led to colonization.
Definition
Mandalay
- Final royal capital of independent Burma, founded by King Mindon.
Definition
Konbaung Dynasty
- Last Burmese royal dynasty (1752–1885).
Kings Mindon and Thibaw
King Mindon’s Rule (1853–1878)
- Encouraged industrial and educational reforms to resist colonization.
- Reformed the tax system and built Buddhist monasteries to preserve religion.
- Tried to maintain neutrality between Britain and France.
- Founded Mandalay Palace as a symbol of national unity.
- Died before reforms could protect Burma from foreign threats.
King Thibaw’s Reign (1878–1885)
- Ascended the throne at a young age; manipulated by the royal court and queen Supayalat.
- Distrusted by British officials who viewed him as anti-foreign.
- British accused his court of signing trade deals with France.
- Defeated in the Third Anglo–Burmese War (1885); exiled to India.
- Marked the end of Burmese monarchy and full British annexation.
The Three Anglo–Burmese Wars and British Conquest
- First War (1824–1826)
- Triggered by border conflicts between Burma and British India; Britain seized Arakanand Tenasserim.
- Second War (1852)
- Sparked by trade disputes in Rangoon; Britain annexed Lower Burma, including the port of Rangoon (Yangon).
- Third War (1885)
- Britain accused King Thibaw of allying with France; invaded Upper Burma and annexed the whole country.
- Administrative Reforms
