High Middle Ages · Southeast Asia · Politics

1008

Suryavarman I consolidates power at Angkor

1008

After years of civil war against rival claimants, the Khmer usurper secured his grip on the throne of Angkor. He compelled court officials to swear binding oaths of loyalty inscribed on stone, a practice unprecedented in Khmer statecraft. His reign would double the empire's territory and launch the construction of the vast West Baray reservoir.