San, Sayan

Born in 1876, Saya San was a revered Buddhist monk until he was disrobed. He then entered socio-political and anti-colonial activities by joining the General Council of Buddhist Associations (GCBA). In December 1930, he inflamed the Burmese countryside by launching local peasant revolts inspired by his mysticism and traditional charisma. Pretending to restore the ancient Burman monarchic order, he led one of the largest rural rebellions against the British colonial order, it lasted 18 months (1930-1932). After being arrested, he was sentenced to death by the British and hanged in November 1931.