Chairacha

Chairachathirat (, ), or Chai was from 1534 to 1546 the King of Ayutthaya, an ancient kingdom in Thailand. His reign was notable for the increasing presence of Portuguese traders, soldiers, and the introduction of firearms and other modern military technologies to Siam. thumb|Ayutthaya during Chairacha's reign Chairachathirat ascended the throne following the short reign of King Ratsadathirat, and ruled during a period of internal consolidation and growing foreign contact. His court maintained relations with the Lan Xang and Lanna kingdoms, while also contending with Burmese incursions from Toungoo Burma. He was succeeded by his young son, Yotfa, under the regency of Sri Sudachan.

== Birth == The evidence regarding his father is not yet clear; the Royal Chronicle by the Venerable Vanarata of Pakaeo Temple and the Royal Chronicle (Rattanakosin edition) only state that King Chairachathirat is of the royal family of King Ramathibodi. The Pali text "Sangitiyavansa", authored in the reign of King Rama I by the Venerable Vanarata of Pho Temple, state that he is the nephew (son of the sister) of Ramathibodi.