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1907 - Ugyen Wangchuk is chosen as hereditary ruler
1910 - Treaty signed with British giving them control over Bhutan's foreign relations
1949 - Treaty signed with newly-independent India guaranteeing non-interference in Bhutan's internal affairs, but allowing Delhi influence over foreign relations
1952 - Reformist monarch Jigme Dorji Wangchuk succeeds to throne.
1952 - National assembly established .
1958 - Slavery abolished.
1959 - Several thousand refugees given asylum after Chinese annex Tibet | | | | |
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| | It is believed that the name Bhutan is derived from the Sanskrit 'Bhotant', meaning 'the end of Tibet', or from 'Bhu-uttan', meaning 'high land'. | | | |
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| | Each economic programme takes into account the government's desire to protect the country's environment and cultural traditions. | | | |
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| | Druk Yul is the traditional or native name of Bhutan. It is ruled by a hereditary monarch. | | | |
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| | In 2001 the King commissioned the drafting of a Constitution, and in March 2005 publicly unveiled it. The Constitution is now awaiting referendum. | | | |
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| | Unlike his four wives, all of whom are sisters, who use fortress-like palace, the king maintains a simple lifestyle. | | |
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The kingdom of Bhutan is a tiny and impoverished country nestling in the Himalayas between two powerful neighbours, India and China. | | |
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