Bhutan: History

1616 Ngawana Namgyal, from Tibet, consolidates Bhutan and becomes ruler of the country.

1910 The Treaty of Punakha is signed with the British. The treaty allows Bhutan to keep control of its internal affairs if Britain is given control of Bhutan’s foreign affairs.

1949 The Treaty of Peace and Friendship is signed with newly independent India, which gives Bhutan control of its internal affairs but allows India to guide Bhutan in its foreign policy.

1958 Several social reforms are implemented, including the abolition of slavery.

1971 Bhutan becomes a member of the United Nations.

1972 Jigme Singye Wangchuck ascends to the throne at age 16. He emphasizes modern education, decentralization of the government, and the development of tourism.

2005 A new constitution is unveiled that will replace the monarchy with a parliamentary democracy by 2008.

2006 King Jigme Singye Wangchuck abdicates the throne amid the transition to a parliamentary democracy. His son, Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck becomes King.

2007 Bhutan signs an agreement with India that gives Bhutan more say in its foreign affairs.

2009

Huanglongbing virus wipes out a majority of orange crop, an important export for Bhutan.

2017

Bhutan protests to China after the country builds a road in disputed territory.