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Originally Posted by Divemaster

For those who don't understand what the death of the king (American born, BTW) means to the Thai people, let me provide some context.

Every Thai home, all the way down to remote stick and thatch huts hidden in the mountains, has a picture of the king and queen. Walk into any Thai restaurant in the United States, and you will find the same pictures. He has been a fixture for their entire lives, and their parents entire lives.

It is a crime to deface the currency because the king's picture is on every note and coin. If you were to drop a 5 baht coin and it starts rolling away, don't stop it with your foot. Very disrespectful.

Back in the 1990s, his power was shown. It was some major political impasse, I don't remember the details. But, on national TV, the king had the prime minister and his major political enemy come to him, walking on their knees. Essentially he told them to cease and desist. Problem solved. In a country marked by political instability and sporadic military coups, the generals are in charge now, King Bhumibol Adulyadej was an island of stability.

Now he's gone and the people feel a profound sense of loss. Also, they don't particularly care for is 64 year old son, the crown prince. Interesting times ahead for tourists currently visiting the kingdom.

Rest in peace, Your Majesty.

How about we given them our Queen? Of course we'll have to wait until after the Coronation in November.