The career of Pote Sarasin spanned several decades of Thai governance, beginning in the legal profession and culminating in his appointment as Prime Minister in 1957. Born in Bangkok in 1905, he navigated the complex political landscape of 20th-century Thailand through his background in diplomacy, civil service, and international relations, maintaining a consistent presence in the country's leadership until his final official roles in the early 1970s.
Early Education and Legal Practice
Pote Sarasin originated from a Hainanese Thai Chinese family of landowners and merchants in Bangkok. His father, Wee Thian Hee, was both a doctor and a rice merchant. Pote received his early education at Bangkok Christian College before transitioning to the Wilbraham & Monson Academy in Massachusetts. Following his time in the United States, he pursued legal studies in the United Kingdom, eventually qualifying at Middle Temple in London. Between 1933 and 1945, he focused on private practice as an attorney in his home city.
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In 1948, Pote entered government service as deputy minister of foreign affairs. He subsequently served as foreign minister from 1949 to 1950. During this period, he notably challenged Prime Minister Plaek Phibunsongkhram regarding the diplomatic recognition of Bảo Đại in Vietnam. Arguing that the move lacked public support and risked long-term hostility toward Thailand, Pote eventually resigned from his position over this matter of principle. He also represented his country abroad as the ambassador to the United States.
Premiership and SEATO Leadership
In September 1957, Sarit Thanarat led a military coup and appointed Pote as Prime Minister. Chosen partly for his strong connections with the American establishment, Pote oversaw the administration of national elections that December before stepping down from the office. Following his brief tenure as head of state, he served as the first Secretary General of the Southeast Asia Treaty Organization (SEATO), holding the post from 1957 to 1963. He later returned to government as Minister of Commerce from 1968 to 1969 and as Minister Attached to the Prime Minister's Office from 1969 to 1971.
Legacy and Honours
A Buddhist, Pote belonged to a family with significant interests in rice trading and real estate. His three sons—Pong, Pao, and Arsa—each attained high-level positions in Thai society, including serving as Deputy Prime Ministers. Throughout his life, Pote received several state decorations, including the Order of the White Elephant, the Order of Chula Chom Klao, and the Order of the Crown of Thailand. He died in Bangkok on 28 September 2000, at the age of 95.
Fast facts
- Born: 25 March 1905, Bangkok
- Died: 28 September 2000, Bangkok
- Prime Minister of Thailand: 1957
- Secretary General of SEATO: 1957-1963
- Minister of Commerce: 1968-1969
- Education: Bangkok Christian College; Wilbraham & Monson Academy
- Religion: Buddhism
- Citizenship: Thailand
Questions readers ask
How long was Pote Sarasin Prime Minister?
He served as Prime Minister of Thailand from September 1957 to December 1957.
Did Pote Sarasin have children who entered politics?
Yes, all three of his sons—Pong, Pao, and Arsa—served as Deputy Prime Ministers of Thailand.
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