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Jigme Dorji Wangchuck (Wylie: 'jigs med rdo rje dbang phyug) was the Druk Gyalpo of Bhutan.
He began to open Bhutan to the outside world, began modernization, and took the first steps toward democratization.
At a young age, he was apprenticed in etiquette and leadership at the royal court of his father the King. Wangchuck was educated in a British manner in Kalimpong and went on study tours and stay to many foreign countries such as Scotland and Switzerland from where he drew inspiration to develop Bhutan with suitable adaptations. In 1943, he was appointed Trongsa Dronyer and then elevated as the 25th Paro Penlop in 1950, upon the death of the 24th Paro Penlop, Tshering Penjor. Wangchuck married Ashi Kesang Choden Wangchuck, the daughter of Gongzim (Lord Chamberlain) Sonam Topgay Dorji, in 1951. The royal wedding was held in Paro Garden Palace. The following year, Wangchuck became the King after his father died in Kunga Rabten Palace. Coronation was held in Punakha dzong on 27 October 1952.
During his 20-year reign that ended in June 1972, the fundamental reorientation of Bhutanese society began. Wangchuck not only achieved the reorganisation of society and government, but also consolidated Bhutan's sovereignty and security. | 
