The Chakri dynasty have ruled Thailand since king Taksin was declared mad in 1782. The name Chakri (Thai จักรี) derives from the title Phya Chakri, given to Rama I while he was a general in Taksin's army.
During the reign of King Rama III, his predecessors were usually referred as "the first king" and "the middle king". However in this naming he would have been called "the last king", which was considered a bad omen and thus not used. Instead he posthumously gave them the above names, and himself the name "Nangklao". The name "Rama" was introduced by King Vajiravudh, but his successor rejected it. Even though never readopted officially, it is the common naming in Thailand. The name Mongkut in English texts usually refers to Rama IV, but in Thailand it is usually understood as the reigning title of Rama VI, Phra Mongkut Klao Chaoyuhua.
Vice-Kings
Until 1885 every king had a vice-king (Maha Uparaja, also often translated as second king), usually the brother of the king and the designated heir to the throne - however Rama II was the only former vice-king who actually ascended to the throne. When the vice-king died before the king, the title often remained vacant for several years. The system was abolished by King Chulalongkorn when his vice-king Bovorn Vichaicharn died. He then declared his oldest son the crown prince, but not vice-king.
King Bhumibol Adulyadej, Rama IX King Bhumibol Adulyadej was born in Cambridge, Massachusetts on December 5, 1927.
In 1946 the King of Thailand, His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej, came to the throne.
Fortunate because of having a King who has both far-reaching knowledge and generous compassion: and unusual because throughout each year of his reign, he has become more deeply loved and respected by his subjects.
The life of Thailand'sKing Bhumibol Adulyadej is chronicled, along with a comparison of increasing corruption in Thai government.
Thus, Thailand, simultaneously regarded as an ally by the Japanese and by the grateful Americans and British, avoided the worst consequences of the war.
There is still a strong sense in Thailand that the monarch is divinely appointed, although his historic role has changed from that of god-king to the father of his people, concerned for the welfare of his subjects.
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