He ruled the Thai Kingdom from 1869 to 1910. During his reign, Siam,as Thailand was known then, was under the threat of colonization from both the British and the French. The King averted the risk successfully through his subtle diplomacy. At that time,the United Kingdom and France were competing for colonies to expand their influences in trading. The United Kingdom gained control of Burma,while France came to take over Laos, Vietnam, and Cambodia. Both the United Kingdom and France eyed Thailand to acquire further territory.