from cnn.com: In most capital cities, waking up to images of armed soldiers, military vehicles and blockades on the streets — the result of an unexpected 3 a.m. announcement that the army has declared martial law — might be cause for alarm. But Bangkok isn’t your average city. Since 1932 — the year Thailand became a constitutional monarchy — there have been at least 18 actual or attempted military takeovers. Since November 2013, widespread protests and the threat of violence have been a constant presence in Bangkok, as two divided sides passionately battle over the country’s future leadership. As a result, very little surprises residents in this city.