Souvanna Phouma

ModernPoliticianLaos1901 — 1984

Prince and prime minister of Laos during the civil war.

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Quick Facts

Born

1901

Died

1984

Country

Laos

Era

Modern

Occupation

Politician

Score Overview

Military (10%)11

Political (20%)68

Influence (20%)53

Legacy (20%)45

Leadership (15%)65

Strategy (15%)39

Total Score49.5

Souvanna Phouma — Complete Timeline

1951 AD

First term as Prime MinisterPolitical Action◆ Major

Souvanna Phouma became Prime Minister of Laos for the first time, leading a neutralist government. He sought to maintain Laos's neutrality in the Cold War, balancing between communist Pathet Lao and right-wing factions.

Prime MinisterNeutralityCold War

Impact: nationalconstructive

1962 AD

Geneva Accords of 1962Political Action◆ Major

Souvanna Phouma signed the Geneva Accords, which established Laos as a neutral state and created a coalition government. The agreement was intended to end the Laotian Civil War but ultimately failed to prevent further conflict.

Geneva AccordsNeutralityCoalition

Impact: regionalconstructive

1973 AD

Formation of coalition governmentPolitical Action◆ Major

Souvanna Phouma helped form a new coalition government with the Pathet Lao after the Vientiane Agreement. This government aimed to end the civil war but was short-lived as the Pathet Lao seized full power in 1975.

CoalitionCivil warVientiane Agreement

Impact: nationalconstructive

1975 AD

Resignation after Pathet Lao takeoverPolitical Action◆ Major

Souvanna Phouma resigned as Prime Minister after the Pathet Lao took control of Laos, ending the monarchy. He remained in Laos as an advisor to the new communist government until his death.

ResignationPathet LaoCommunist takeover

Impact: nationaltragic