Lan Kham Deng facts for kids

Lan Kham Deng (Lao: ພະເຈົ້າລ້ານຄຳແດງ, 1375–1428) was the third king of the ancient Lao kingdom called Lan Xang. He was the oldest son of King Samsenethai, who ruled before him. Lan Kham Deng became king in 1416 and ruled for 12 years until his death in 1428.

A King's Reign: Challenges and Conflicts

During Lan Kham Deng's time as king, the Hồ dynasty emperor in Vietnam asked for help. Vietnam was being attacked by China during a war known as the Ming–Hồ War. The Vietnamese emperor wanted Lan Kham Deng to send soldiers to help them fight off the Chinese invaders.

A Surprising Turn of Events

Lan Kham Deng sent thousands of soldiers from Lan Xang to help Vietnam. However, something unexpected happened. For reasons that are not fully clear, the armies of Lan Xang turned against the Vietnamese. Instead, they decided to fight on China's side.

War with Vietnam

Eventually, Vietnam managed to defeat China. But because of the actions of Lan Xang's army, the friendship between Lan Xang and Vietnam was broken. Soon after, a full-scale war started between the two kingdoms. This war with Vietnam caused a lot of trouble and confusion in Lan Xang. It also led to many royal family members trying to take over the throne.

The End of His Rule

Lan Kham Deng died in 1428 when he was 53 years old. He had ruled the kingdom of Lan Xang for 12 years. After his death, his son, Prince Phommathat, became the next king.

Royal Family Life

• Father: Sam Saen Thai - He was the King of Lan Xang from 1374 to 1416.
• Mother: Queen Buvana Dhanipaya, also known as Bua Then Fa.
• Wives and Children:
  • Queen Nang Kaeva Buma Fa (Keo Poum Fa)
    • Brahma-kumara Bhumadarada (Phommathath), who became King of Lan Xang (ruled 1428–1429).
  • Children by other women:
    • Yugandhara (Youkhon), who also became King of Lan Xang (ruled 1429–1430).
    • Prince Nu Kon, who later became the ruler of Xieng Khoang in 1441.