Bernard Lewis commented upon use of history of political legitimization: attaching ones regime to some earlier recognized predecessor serves the purpose of providing not merely dignity but also authority" 3 This is precisely the technique Wichit employed. Influenced by Western historiography and by ideas developed by Vajiravudh, Wichit conjured up a martial image for the Thais, portraying them as natural fighters who had always been willing to sacrifice themselves in order to maintain their independence, that is, their Thainess.