As prime minister (1988-1990) General Chatichai Choonhavan (1922-1998) tried to lead Thailand in its internal economic expansion and in its enhanced political and economic roles in Southeast Asia.

Born on April 5, 1922, to a military family (his father was Field Marshal Phin Choonhavan), Chatichai Choonhavan had a distinguished career both in the military and in public service. It was under the leadership of his government that Thailand began to play a more important role in the politics and economic life of mainland Southeast Asia.

Chatichai Choonhavan was educated at the Chulachomklao Royal Military Academy, graduating in 1940. His military education continued at the Royal Thai Army Cavalry Officer School in 1946 and at the Armored School of the United States Army in 1948. His active-duty career included action in the Thai-Indochina conflict of 1940, World War II, and the Korean War. He started as a sublieutenant in 1940 and a year later was promoted...