Qatar: History

Qatar falls under British protectorate following World War I, giving Britain control over Qatar's external affairs. 

Oil is initially discovered in the region, but exploitation is delayed due to World War II. 

Following World War II, oil drilling commences. 

Oil export revenues allow the country to expand and modernize its infrastructure. 

British forces begin to withdraw from the Gulf region and Qatar becomes officially independent in 1971. 

Qatar joins the fight to liberate Kuwait following an Iraqi invasion. 

Qatar and the United States launch a $14 billion joint project to build the world's largest liquefied natural gas plant. A majority of the gas from the plant is to be exported to the United States. 

Qatar and Saudi Arabia finally agree to delineate their borders and pledge to boost co-operation after a long dispute. 

Qatar cuts trade ties with Israel following the Israel-Gaza conflict. 

Qatar became the first country in the Arab world to host the FIFA Men’s World Cup

The United States designated Qatar as a major non-NATO ally.