Asia’s Political Dynasties: Thailand

Thailand has a long history of political dynasties, with several prominent families playing significant roles in the country’s politics for generations.

These dynasties have been a prominent feature of Thai politics since the country transitioned from an absolute monarchy to a constitutional monarchy in the early 20th century.

One of the most prominent is the Bhumibol dynasty, named after King Bhumibol Adulyadej, who ruled Thailand from 1946 until his death in 2016.

While usually working behind-the-scenes, the Bhumibol dynasty became a major force in Thai politics in the 1940s, and the dearly-loved King Bhumibol played a significant role in the country’s post-war political development, often intervening in political crises to restore stability.

Born in Cambridge,…