Foundation and Early History of the Ava Kingdom
The Ava Kingdom, also known as the Inwa Kingdom, was established in 1364 in what is today Myanmar. The foundation of this kingdom marked a significant transition in the region following the decline of the Pagan Kingdom. The formation of Ava as a kingdom was a direct response to the fragmentation of the Pagan Empire, which had been weakened due to invasions by the Mongols and internal strife among various Shan States.
Establishment
The Ava Kingdom was founded by Thado Minbya, a prince from the Sagaing region, who skillfully unified the smaller states that emerged after the fall of Pagan. Thado Minbya strategically established the capital at Inwa, located on the confluence of the Irrawaddy River and the Myitnge River. This location provided a defensible position and access to vital trade routes, which were crucial for the economic prosperity of the kingdom.
Political and Military Strategy
The Ava Kingdom initially faced challenges from rival states such as the Hanthawaddy Kingdom in the south and the various Shan states in the north. The kingdom engaged in a series of military campaigns to consolidate its power. The infamous Forty Years' War with the Hanthawaddy Kingdom, which spanned from 1385 to 1424, was particularly taxing but ultimately solidified Ava’s influence over the central plains of Burma.
A notable aspect of Ava’s early history was its reliance on a network of alliances and tributary states to maintain control over its territories. These alliances were often secured through marriage alliances and strategic diplomacy, enabling Ava to project power without excessive military expenditure.
Cultural and Economic Development
Under the Ava Kingdom, the region experienced a renaissance in Burmese culture. The kingdom became a center for Buddhist scholarship and monumental architecture, with the construction of numerous pagodas and monasteries that reflected the kingdom's devotion to Theravada Buddhism. The period saw the production of significant literary works, including the famous chronicles that recorded the historical narratives of the Burmese people.
The economy of Ava was primarily agrarian, but the kingdom also thrived on trade. The geographic location of Ava allowed it to control trade routes between China and India, facilitating the exchange of goods such as precious stones, silk, and spices.
Relations with Neighboring States
The Ava Kingdom’s early history was significantly influenced by its relations with neighboring states. The kingdom often found itself in conflict with the neighboring Rakhine Kingdom, while maintaining a delicate balance of power with the Shan states to the north. The complex political landscape of the region demanded a sophisticated approach to diplomacy, which often involved a combination of military might and strategic alliances.
The Toungoo dynasty eventually emerged from within Ava’s sphere of influence, setting the stage for future power shifts in the region. Mingyi Nyo, a former vassal of Ava, declared Toungoo’s independence in 1510, foreshadowing the eventual decline of Ava as a dominant power in Burma.