Khmer Empire, The

This audiobook is narrated by a digital voice. The Khmer Empire, one of Southeast Asia’s most powerful and influential civilizations, rose to prominence in the early medieval period, shaping the history and culture of the region for over six centuries. This empire, known for its stunning architectural feats and sophisticated social organization, was founded by the legendary king Jayavarman II in the early 9th century. Its early formation was not an isolated event but the culmination of centuries of political, cultural, and technological developments within Southeast Asia. Before the establishment of the Khmer Empire, the region was home to various kingdoms, including the Funan and Chenla, which laid the groundwork for Khmer civilization. These early polities were characterized by the development of agriculture, advanced water management techniques, and trade with neighboring regions such as India and China. The exchange of ideas, religious practices, and cultural influences from India, in particular, played a crucial role in the rise of the Khmer Empire. Hinduism and later Buddhism deeply impacted the political, artistic, and architectural landscape of the Khmer civilization. Jayavarman II, credited with founding the Khmer Empire, was not only a military leader but also a visionary ruler who unified the disparate kingdoms of the region under a single banner. His political acumen and military prowess helped him consolidate power and establish Angkor as the heart of his empire. The site, located in present-day Cambodia, was strategically chosen due to its fertile land and access to the Tonle Sap Lake, which provided a steady water supply essential for agriculture and trade.