The Grandeur and Rise of Burma In Colonial Asia
The Golden Letter from King Alaungphaya to King George II contains a trade proposal, composed of gold and rubies, which reflects Burma's rise in power in the 18th century.
The Golden Letter of the Burmese King Alaungphaya to King George ll of Great Britain, view 2 (18th century) by King AlaungphayaUNESCO Memory of the World
Golden Letter from Burma to Great Britain
The Golden Letter from Burmese King Alaungphaya to King George II of Great Britain contains a trade proposal granting the English a base, providing them with a strategic advantage over the rival French interest, in exchange for military support against Alaungphaya’s enemies.
The Golden Letter of the Burmese King Alaungphaya to King George ll of Great , view 1 (18th century) by King AlaungphayaUNESCO Memory of the World
Gold and Rubies
The text is engraved on pure gold and the gold leaf is decorated with 24 rubies. It was delivered in an ivory box, in which the letter was rolled. It’s the sole surviving golden letter from Burma.
George Ii - King Of England 1683-1760 (George Augustus)LIFE Photo Collection
English-French Rivalry under King George II
The trade proposal reflects the shift of English-French rivalry from within Europe and North America to southern Asia and the rise of Burma as a new regional power.
The Golden Letter of the Burmese King Alaungphaya to King George ll of Great Britain, view 3 (18th century) by King AlaungphayaUNESCO Memory of the World
It’s a key document for the early colonial history of Asia.
The Golden Letter of the Burmese King Alaungphaya to King George ll of Great Britain, view 4 (18th century) by King AlaungphayaUNESCO Memory of the World
Regional Power of Burma
The Letter documents the rise and the importance of one of the most important rulers in Burmese history who assumed a position as an equal of a Western colonial power and acted with self-confidence.
