Information About King Bhumibol of Thailand

King Bhumibol Adulyadej is the long reining and influential king of Thailand. The king is both revered by the public and protected by the Constitution.

History

King Bhumibol Adulyadej was born December 5, 1927 in Cambridge, Massachusetts in the United States of America.

Time Frame

King Bhumibol's reign of Thailand began June 9, 1946. His coronation was on May 5, 1950, which is celebrated every year with the Thai public holiday "Coronation Day."

Significance

King Bhumibol is the world's longest serving head of state and the longest reigning monarch in Thai history.

Influence

Although officially King Bhumibol's power is limited, he occasionally intervenes in political affairs. For example, he is said to have exerted some influence in the 2006 Thai coup, which overthrew the government.

Warning

King Bhumibol and his family are protected by a lèse majesté ("injured majesty") law. Any insult to the monarchy is punishable by 3 to 15 years imprisonment.

References

• The Golden Jubilee Network: Biography of H.M.K Bhumibol Adulyadej
• BBC News: Thai king remains centre stage
• BBC News: Writer held for 'insulting' Thai royals