Anna Leonowens was a British governess and educator, best known for her time in the court of King Mongkut of Siam (now Thailand) during the 1860s. She was hired to teach the king's children and became an influential figure in the royal household. Her experiences in Siam were later chronicled in her books, which provided insights into the culture and customs of the region. Leonowens is also recognized for her role in inspiring the musical and film adaptations of her life, particularly the popular works The King and I. Her legacy continues to spark interest in the historical interactions between the West and Southeast Asia.