Mindon Min

Mindon Min initiated a series of modernization reforms, including the establishment of a modern mint, the introduction of telegraph and postal systems, the construction of roads and canals, and the reorganization of the army along Western lines. He also invited European advisors to the court.

Mindon Min ascended the throne after overthrowing his half-brother Pagan Min in a palace coup. He immediately sought peace with the British, ending the Second Anglo-Burmese War (which had started in 1852) and accepting the loss of Lower Burma.

Mindon Min founded the new royal capital of Mandalay and constructed the Mandalay Palace, a vast walled complex. The move from Amarapura to Mandalay was part of his efforts to create a modern capital and assert royal authority.

Mindon Min signed a commercial treaty with the British, opening Burma to trade and allowing a British resident in Mandalay. The treaty recognized British control of Lower Burma and established a framework for diplomatic relations, but also increased British influence.

Mindon Min convened the Fifth Buddhist Council in Mandalay, a major religious event attended by thousands of monks. The council aimed to purify and standardize the Pali canon. The text was inscribed on 729 marble slabs at the Kuthodaw Pagoda, the world's largest book.