A member of Thailand's Chakri dynasty, Bhumibol began his reign when his brother, King Ananda Mahidol, died in 1946 under mysterious circumstances. Bhumibol ruled with a regent until 1950, when he was formally crowned Rama IX. The longest-ruling monarch in Thailand's history, he also became the longest-reigning ruler in the world in 2000. Although his power is largely ceremonial, he has enjoyed great popular support and serves as a focus of national unity. Who is Bhumibol's heir apparent? Discuss (http://forum.thefreedictionary.com/postst16581_Bhumibol-Adulyadej-Becomes-King-of-Thailand--1946-.aspx)
Source: Bhumibol Adulyadej Becomes King of Thailand (1946) (http://encyclopedia.thefreedictionary.com/Bhumibol+Adulyadej)