Anawrahta

MedievalEmperorMyanmar1014 — 1077

Founder of the Pagan Empire who introduced Theravada Buddhism.

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Quick Facts

Born

1014

Died

1077

Country

Myanmar

Era

Medieval

Occupation

Emperor

Score Overview

Military (10%)70

Political (20%)68

Influence (20%)72

Legacy (20%)55

Leadership (15%)72

Strategy (15%)55

Total Score65.2

Anawrahta — Complete Timeline

1044 AD

Founding of the Pagan EmpirePolitical Action

Anawrahta ascended the throne and unified the Irrawaddy River valley, founding the Pagan Empire. He conquered the Mon kingdom of Thaton and other neighboring states, creating the first unified Burmese kingdom and establishing Bagan as its capital.

UnificationEmpireBagan

Impact: regionalconstructive

1056 AD

Introduction of Theravada Buddhism to PaganCultural

Anawrahta adopted Theravada Buddhism after being converted by the Mon monk Shin Arahan. He made Theravada the state religion, replacing the existing Mahayana and animist practices. This religious shift had a lasting impact on Burmese culture and politics.

BuddhismReligionConversion

Impact: regionalconstructive

1057 AD

Conquest of the Thaton KingdomWar◆ Major

Anawrahta led a military campaign against the Mon kingdom of Thaton, capturing the city and bringing back Buddhist scriptures, monks, and artisans to Bagan. This conquest enriched Pagan's culture and solidified its dominance in the region.

ConquestMonCultural Exchange

Impact: regional