The Zhabdrung did not only unify the country but also ensured political stability and peace. However a dark age of civil unrest and political instability followed the era after the demise of Zhabdrung. There was a constant warfare between political rivals and regional leaders for power and supremacy, leading to rise of different power centers.
The 19th century was rife with internal strife, different factions competing for political authority. By the fall of 19th century, Deb Jigme Namgyel emerged as the national leader with significant influence over other small warring factions. His son Ugyen Wangchuck not only continued the legacy but also further fortified his position by bringing different power centers under his control.
Therefore it was only natural that on December 17, 1907, Ugyen Wangchuck was unanimously installed as the first hereditary Monarch of Bhutan. It marked the beginning of enlightened leadership as he and his successive heirs continued to build a stronger, politically stable, sovereign Bhutan.