Renewed competition in Bhutan among regional rivals…

Renewed competition in Bhutan among regional rivals in the 1870s and 1880s—primarily the pro-British ponlop of Tongsa and the anti-British, pro-Tibetan ponlop of Paro—result in the ascendancy of Ugyen Wangchuck, the ponlop of Tongsa.

From his power base in central Bhutan, Ugyen Wangchuck had defeated his political enemies and united the country following several civil wars and rebellions in 1882-85.

His victory comes at a time of crisis for the central government, however.

British power is becoming more extensive to the south, and in the west Tibet had violated its border with Sikkim, incurring British disfavor.

After one thousand years of close ties with Tibet, Bhutan faces the threat of British military power and is forced to make serious geopolitical decisions.

The British, seeking to offset potential Russian advances in Lhasa, wants to open trade relations with Tibet.

Ugyen Wangchuck sees the opportunity to assist the British and in 1903-4 will volunteer to accompany a British mission to Lhasa as a mediator.

For his services in securing the Anglo-Tibetan Convention of 1904, Ugyen Wangchuck will be knighted and thereafter continue to accrue greater power in Bhutan.