The Burmese king Alaungpaya (1715-1760) ruled from 1752 to 1760. Founder of the Konbaung dynasty, he infused new vigor into his people and engaged in conquests that expanded Burma's (now Myanmar) borders to an unparalleled extent.

Alaungpaya was born in the village of Moksobo on the western bank of the Irrawaddy River and given the name of Aung Zeya by his parents. His father was headman of the village, and when he later decided to relinquish the post, Aung Zeya succeeded him.

In 1737, when Aung Zeya was only 22, the belief spread among the superstitious people of the countryside that a new leader of great valor and courage would emerge among them to replace the ruler of the then weak Burman dynasty. After consulting various astrologers, the king arrested Aung Zeya, who denied that he was the would-be leader. He was released, and for the next 16 years he lived quietly among...