Hsipaw State was perhaps one of the most well known and powerful saopha Shan States. According to the biography of Sao Nang Hearn Hkam (the chief wife; Madhidevi of Sao Shwe Thaik; the first president of Myanmar and another saopha of Hsenwi); Hsipaw; along with Kengtung and Yawnghwe were the wealthiest and most powerful saopha states in Shan State.

The Saophas played fluctuating roles in regional Shan and national Burmese politics from the 11th century all the way until the 1962 military coup by General Ne Win. Pictures From History Pictures From History