Mongkut was the King of Siam, now known as Thailand, from 1851 until his death in 1868. He is best known for modernizing the country and promoting reforms in education, infrastructure, and the legal system. His reign marked a significant transition as Siam sought to maintain its independence amid colonial pressures from Western powers. Mongkut was also a scholar and a monk before becoming king, which influenced his interest in science and technology. He established diplomatic relations with several countries, including the United States and Britain, and is often remembered for his role in the popular musical and film, The King and I.