Phuket is located in the Andaman Sea and recognised as one of the kingdom's chief attractions for visitors. The island has a history of tin mining and rubber production, deriving substantial wealth from being on the 'Silk Route' between China and India. Phuket's most famous historical figures are Thao Thepkasattri and Thao Sisunthon who led islanders in defending Phuket from a Burmese invasion in 1785. A tribute to these heroines is one of the island's main attractions.