Magadu, renamed Wareru, founder of Ramanya Kingdom, renamed Hanthawady Kingdom of Pegu (b. a commoner; d. on a Saturday in January 1307)

Rise of a Kingdom: Wareru's Early Life and Ascent

Wareru, also known as Wagaru, emerged from humble beginnings to become a pivotal figure in Southeast Asian history. Born on March 20, 1253, and tragically assassinated around January 14, 1307, this remarkable leader founded the Martaban Kingdom, a significant Mon-speaking polity in what is now modern-day Myanmar (Burma).

His ascent began amidst the tumultuous collapse of the mighty Pagan Empire (Bagan Empire) in the 1280s. A commoner by birth, Wareru displayed a keen understanding of both military strategy and diplomatic finesse, skills that would prove instrumental in carving out his own domain. In 1285, he audaciously seized the governorship of Martaban (Mottama), marking his decisive entry onto the political stage.

Founding the Martaban Kingdom and Securing Independence

With the crucial backing of the powerful Sukhothai Kingdom, an alliance that significantly bolstered his authority, Wareru boldly declared independence from Pagan in 1287. This act set the stage for a period of consolidation and conflict. A major challenge came in 1295–1296, when Wareru, alongside his ally Tarabya, the self-proclaimed king of Pegu (Bago), decisively repelled a large-scale invasion launched by the declining Pagan Empire. This victory not only secured their nascent territories but also showcased Wareru's formidable military prowess.

Consolidation of Power and International Recognition

However, Wareru was not one to tolerate rivals for long. Soon after their joint triumph, he eliminated Tarabya, solidifying his position as the undisputed ruler. By approximately 1296, his dominion had expanded considerably, encompassing the three crucial Mon-speaking provinces of Bassein, Pegu, and Martaban. With his realm now firmly established and significantly enlarged, Wareru sought international recognition, successfully gaining acknowledgement from the formidable Yuan China in 1298, a testament to his diplomatic acumen.

An Enduring Legacy: The Mon People and the Wareru Dhammathat

While his exact ethnic background, whether Mon or Shan, remains a subject of historical discussion, Wareru's most profound and enduring legacy was the establishment of the only independent Mon-speaking polity to survive the political upheavals of the late 13th century. The sustained success of the Martaban Kingdom under his vision played a crucial role in fostering the distinct identity and emergence of the Mon people as a coherent ethnic group throughout the 14th and 15th centuries.

Beyond territorial achievements, Wareru also commissioned a seminal legal code, the Wareru Dhammathat. This ancient legal treatise stands as one of Myanmar's oldest extant dhammathats (legal treatises), profoundly influencing the legal frameworks of both Burma and Siam for centuries, right up to the 19th century.

Wareru's impactful reign came to an abrupt end with his assassination in 1307. Despite his violent demise, his legacy endured; his dynastic line continued to rule the kingdom for over two centuries, until its eventual fall in the mid-16th century, a testament to the strong foundations he laid.

Frequently Asked Questions about Wareru

Who was Wareru?
Wareru, also known as Wagaru, was the founder of the Martaban Kingdom in present-day Myanmar (Burma). He was a commoner who rose to power during the collapse of the Pagan Empire, establishing a significant Mon-speaking polity.
When did Wareru live?
Wareru was born on March 20, 1253, and was tragically assassinated around January 14, 1307.
What was the Martaban Kingdom?
The Martaban Kingdom was a Mon-speaking polity in Lower Burma, founded by Wareru. It emerged during the late 13th century and was crucial for the development of the Mon people's identity.
What is the Wareru Dhammathat?
The Wareru Dhammathat is a legal code commissioned by King Wareru. It is one of Myanmar's oldest surviving legal treatises and significantly influenced the legal systems of Burma and Siam for centuries.
How did Wareru rise to power?
Starting as a commoner, Wareru seized the governorship of Martaban (Mottama) in 1285. He then secured the backing of the Sukhothai Kingdom and declared independence from the Pagan Empire in 1287, leveraging both military and diplomatic skills.