John IV of Portugal vs Vajiravudh

John IV was acclaimed King of Portugal after a coup in Lisbon overthrew Spanish Habsburg rule. This started the Portuguese Restoration War, a 28-year conflict to re-establish Portuguese independence from Spain.

John IV signed a treaty with the Dutch Republic, agreeing to a truce in their colonial conflicts. The treaty recognized Portuguese sovereignty but ceded territories in Brazil and Asia, a pragmatic move to secure Dutch support against Spain.

John IV created the Council of Overseas to centralize administration of Portuguese colonies. This reform improved colonial governance and defense, helping to preserve Portugal's overseas empire during the war with Spain.

Portuguese forces defeated the Spanish army at Montijo in Extremadura. This victory boosted Portuguese morale and demonstrated the viability of the Restoration, though it did not end the war.

Pope Innocent X recognized John IV as King of Portugal, ending papal support for Spain's claim. This diplomatic victory legitimized the Braganza dynasty and weakened Spain's position internationally.

Vajiravudh, as King Rama VI, promoted a strong sense of Thai nationalism through speeches, writings, and policies. He emphasized loyalty to the nation, religion, and monarchy. His nationalism was aimed at unifying the country and resisting Western colonial influence.

Vajiravudh established the Wild Tiger Corps, a paramilitary organization loyal to the king. The corps was intended to counterbalance the regular army and promote royalist sentiment. It was controversial and seen as a tool to consolidate personal power.

Vajiravudh introduced the use of surnames for all Thai citizens, a reform modeled on Western practices. The law required every family to adopt a surname, which helped in administrative record-keeping and promoted a sense of family identity.

Vajiravudh founded Chulalongkorn University, Thailand's first university, named after his father. The university was established to modernize education and train civil servants. It became a leading institution for higher education in Thailand.

Vajiravudh enacted the Compulsory Education Act, requiring all children to attend primary school. The reform aimed to increase literacy and create a more educated populace. It laid the foundation for Thailand's modern education system.