Anu, Chao

Anu, Chao

(born 1767—died 1835, Bangkok, Siam) Ruler of the central Lao kingdom of Vientiane (r. 1804–29). In his youth Anu fought with the Siamese against the Burmans (Burmese) and won Siamese respect for his military prowess. Chosen by them to be king of Vientiane, he undertook major public works and cultivated good relations with Vietnam. He had the Siamese appoint his son ruler of the southern Lao principality of Champassak and began to plot a rebellion for Lao independence. His armies nearly reached Bangkok, but the revolt was quelled and Vientiane was sacked and later razed. Anu fled to the forests but was captured, punished, and killed.