BORN ON THIS DAY

BHUMIBOL ADULYADEJ (1927-2016). The King of Thailand was the world’s longest reigning monarch (Queen Elizabeth II took the title upon his death). He acceded to the throne after his older brother was shot dead. At the time, Bhumibol was suspected of being behind the shooting and Lord Mountbatten said he should not be allowed to visit Britain. King George VI is said to have remarked: ‘Buckingham Palace does not host murderers.’ GEORGE CUSTER (18391876). U.S. military hero ( right), whose enduring bravery in the American Civil War was overshadowed by his final act of leading 210 men to their deaths against Native American tribes at the Battle of Little Bighorn in 1876. As a student at West Point military academy, his rebellious streak had made him a poor student. He was frequently disciplined and nearly expelled. It was only the outbreak of Civil War and the need for officers that saved him.