Khun Wichitmatra

Khun Wichitmatra, born Sa-nga Kanchanakhaphan, was a prominent Thai government official, writer, and film director. He played a significant role in the development of Thai nationalism during the 1920s–1930s. He authored numerous plays and non-fiction works, directed several early sound films in Thai cinema, and wrote the first set of lyrics for the Thai National Anthem. His most notable work is the 1928 book 'Lak Thai,' which introduced the idea of the Altai Mountains as the original homeland of the Thai race. This concept significantly influenced Thai historiography and was taught in schools throughout much of the 20th century.