Luang Phibunsongkhram vs Semyon Budyonny

Phibunsongkhram was a key military officer in the People's Party that staged a bloodless coup, ending absolute monarchy in Siam. This revolution established a constitutional monarchy and introduced Western-style parliamentary democracy, transforming Thai politics.

Phibunsongkhram succeeded Phraya Phahon as Prime Minister, consolidating his power. He initiated a period of nationalist and militaristic rule, promoting Thai cultural identity and modernizing the military, while aligning Thailand with Japan.

After Japan invaded Thailand, Phibunsongkhram signed a treaty of alliance with Japan, allowing Japanese forces to use Thai territory. He declared war on the Allies, leading to Thailand's occupation and post-war status as a defeated nation.

As Japan's defeat became imminent, Phibunsongkhram was forced to resign by the National Assembly. His pro-Japanese policies had made him unpopular, and the Free Thai Movement, led by Seni Pramoj, gained power, allowing Thailand to avoid severe Allied punishment.

Phibunsongkhram staged a coup, returning as Prime Minister with military backing. He restored his authoritarian rule, aligning Thailand with the United States during the Cold War and suppressing political opposition, including the Free Thai Movement.

Phibunsongkhram was overthrown in a bloodless coup led by his own military subordinate, Sarit Thanarat. Accused of corruption and electoral fraud, he fled into exile in Japan, ending his 20-year dominance of Thai politics.

Budyonny organized and commanded the 1st Cavalry Army (Konarmiya) during the Russian Civil War. This mobile force became a key instrument for the Bolsheviks, defeating White Army forces in Ukraine and Poland.

Budyonny's 1st Cavalry Army fought in the Polish-Soviet War. His forces were defeated at the Battle of Komar

Budyonny was appointed Deputy People's Commissar of Defense of the USSR. This position placed him in the high command during the early stages of World War II, though his cavalry-focused tactics were increasingly outdated.

Budyonny commanded the Southwestern Front during the German encirclement of Kiev. He failed to secure permission to withdraw, resulting in the loss of over 600,000 Soviet troops captured. This was one of the largest encirclements in history.