New York Times archives re: King Bhumibol Adulyadej of Thailand Dies at 88; Reigned 70 Years

 

Gun Kills Siam’s Young King

On June 9, 1946, Bhumibol Adulyadej becomes Thailand’s king shortly after King Anand Mahidol, his brother and predecessor, is found dead with a bullet through his head in the palace in Bangkok.

 

Thai King Returns to Ascend Throne

In 1950, Bhumibol, who was educated in Switzerland, briefly returns to Bangkok to formally ascend the throne, marry Queen Sirikit and lay his brother to rest.

Ruler of Thailand Crowned in Ritual

The Associated Press describes King Bhumibol’s coronation as a “ceremony of traditional oriental splendor,” calling the ruler a “slight, bespectacled young man.”

 

Heir to Thailand Throne Is Born to Queen Sirikit

Queen Sirikit gives birth to a son, Crown Prince Maha Vajiralongkorn, on July 28, 1952. Crowds gather all over the city when radio broadcasts announce the birth, The Times reports.

 

Kings of Swing and Thailand Jive

In 1956, King Bhumibol teams up with the clarinetist Benny Goodman for about an hour of Dixieland and boogie-woogie that makes musical history.

 

Thailand Revives Her Old Rituals

In 1959, The Times reports on how Thailand’s military government uses royal rituals to consolidate its grip on power.

 

Thais Echo Monarch’s Call for Corruption Curb

In the ’60s, King Bhumibol defies Thailand’s military government in rare comments that denounce corruption, The Times reports.

 

Nixon Asserts U.S. Stands With Thais Against All Foes

In 1969, insurgents mark a state visit by President Richard Nixon, seen here being welcomed by King Bhumibol, by raiding an American air base in the country.

Thai Revolt Leaves the King at Center Stage

After protests that bring down Thailand’s military government at the time, The Times examines the king’s influence among university students, who led many of the demonstrations.

Sensitive and Benevolent Thai King Remains on Pedestal

In October 1976, a military coup ousts Thailand’s elected government. The Times follows the king on a tour of the countryside two months later, reflecting on his role in politics.