King Jayavarman II

Founder of the Khmer Empire, reigned from 802 to 835 AD. the dominant civilisation on the Southeast Asian mainland until the mid 15th century. He was a powerful Khmer king who overthrew the rule of the Shailendra Dynasty from Java. Historians formerly dated his reign as running from 802 AD to 835 AD. Before Jayavarman II came to power, there was much fighting among local overlords who ruled different parts of Cambodia. The country was not unified under one ruler. No inscriptions by Jayavarman II have been found. Future kings of the Khmer Empire described him as a warrior and the most powerful king from that time frame that they can recall.

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King Norodom Sihanouk

King Norodom Sihanouk was a prominent figure in Cambodian history, serving as king, prime minister, and head of state at various times. He played a crucial role in Cambodia's independence from French colonial rule and was known for his efforts to maintain Cambodia's neutrality during the Vietnam War. His reign saw both periods of prosperity and turmoil, including the rise of the Khmer Rouge. Sihanouk's legacy is complex, as he is remembered for his contributions to Cambodian nationalism but also for his controversial alliances during times of conflict.

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Pol Pot

Pol Pot was the leader of the Khmer Rouge and the Prime Minister of Democratic Kampuchea from 1976 to 1979. He is infamous for his role in orchestrating the Cambodian genocide, which led to the deaths of approximately two million people. His brutal regime aimed to create a classless agrarian society, resulting in widespread famine, forced labor, and mass executions that devastated Cambodia.

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Hun Sen

Hun Sen is a Cambodian politician who has served as the Prime Minister of Cambodia since 1985. He is one of the longest-serving leaders in the world and has played a significant role in shaping Cambodia's post-Khmer Rouge political landscape. His leadership has been marked by both economic growth and controversies regarding human rights and political repression.

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