Rama VI, 2nd son of King Chulalongkorn. Born in 1881 and educated in England; he became king in 1911. He continued the modernizations introduced by his father. He was a highly renowned artist and writer.  He introduced the surname system as used in Western countries. Considered the father of Thai nationalism. He modernized education, including founding Chulalongkorn University. Vajiravudh led Siam into the international age by supporting the Allies in World War I, thus giving Siam increased international leverage in later years.