The Father of the Thai Legal System






Prince Rapee Pattanasak (1874-1920), the 14th son of King Chulalongkorn (Rama V), is considered to be the "Father of the Thai Legal System."  The Prince studied law at Christ Church College of Oxford University in the United Kingdom.  Upon his return to Thailand in 1896, Prince Rapee was appointed Minister of Justice.  He held this position for 14 years.  During this time the Prince codified the Thai legal system, established the Thailand's first law school (1897) and generally instituted the understanding of the written legal system in Thailand.  In 1911, King Rama VI appointed Prince Rapee to the post of Minister of Agriculture.  While serving in this position, the Prince standardized land ownership in Thailand and created the Royal Irrigation Department.
The Prince passed away on 7 August 1920 in Paris, France.  Every year on this date, Thailand observes Rapee Day in remembrance of the Prince.
Location: Chumphon, Thailand

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