Thailand’s revered king dies after 70 years on throne
BANGKOK — In an age when most of the world’s blue bloods cut ribbons and meekly approved whatever their governments proposed, the 70-year reign of Thailand’s King Bhumibol Adulyadej stood out in sharp relief, perhaps a throwback to a long-vanished past.
Enjoying an almost god-like status, Bhumibol wielded real political power and inspired mass popularity as the world’s longest-reigning monarch.
Despite being held in great reverence, the king waded through rice paddies and trudged up hillsides to improve life for Thailand’s have-nots. He could squat humbly with lowland farmers and opium-growing hill tribesmen to talk about crops, irrigation and even their marital problems.
Bhumibol guided his country through political upheaval and wrenching social and economic change, and yet, in his final years, more Thais questioned the need for a powerful monarchy in the 21st century. Some critics believed its dependence on the king hindered democratic development. In any case, it is almost certain his successor will not have the same influence.