The Problem of Suay Collection in Isan before the Reform of King Rama V(Thai)

Abstract

The purpose of this research is to study problem of Suay Collection and measures to solve Suay problems in Isan from the begining of the rule of Thai until the reform during the reign of King Rama V. It was found that problems related to Suay had many counts. The first and lowest level of the problem is related to the commonality, including the escape from Suay collection, migration to other cities and natural calamities. The upper level of problems is at the city level that is more complicated. These included the accumulated overdue of Suay of city rulers and conflicts arising from fighting to control over Suay among the city rulers. There were different measures used for solving Suay problems. But the most effective means were Suay registration and arm tattoo (suk lek).