Same Same, But Different! Pt. 14: Inaugurations, Coronations

News photo from the
1950 coronation

Millions in the United States are watching the inauguration coverage for Barack Obama in Washington D.C. as today's post goes out into cyberspace. Hundreds of thousands of people have gathered to witness the ceremony, even if it's mainly for show; the official swearing in was done yesterday on 20 January, per law.

While it's a historic day worthy of celebrating - in my opinion, anyway - it may pale by comparison overall (emotionally, anyway) to the coronation of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej who has reigned since 9 June 1946, although he wasn't ceremonially crowned King of Thailand until 5 May 1950.

Even now, as you can see in the clip up top, any time His Majesty makes an appearance (unfortunately something of a rare occurrence the past handful of years) there's an enormous crowd. Estimates to the crowds in the clip were in the quarter of a million range.

The inauguration as seen on the web, which was one hell of a lot warmer than standing outside with the masses... although I'd probably have done so, given the chance.

While there were hundreds of thousands at the ceremony today for President Obama (above), the level of deep reverence won't be there to the same degree. Not that the people there aren't there to support and congratulate Obama, but... well, it's same same, but different!

News photo of His Majesty on his birthday this past December