History of East Timor

  • Division of Timor

    Division of Timor
    The island of Timor is divided into East and West. Purtogal keeps hold of control of East Timor.
  • Recognition of East Timor

    The Portuguese recognize East Timor's right to self-government and declare their intention to withdraw after more than 400 years of rule.
  • Rising Conflict

    Conflict between East Timorese groups favouring independence and those sustaining combination with Indonesia. Purtogal abandons and Indonesia invades.
  • Indonesian forces vs Fretilin

    War between Indonesian forces and the pro-independence group Fretilin.
  • East Timorese independence leader

    Xanana Gusmao appear as the East Timorese independence leader.
  • Leader captured

    Xanana Gusmao arrested by Indonesian troops and jailed for life for destruction.
  • Nobal Peace Prize awarded

    Nobel Peace Prize presented to the leaders of the East Timorese independence movement, Bishop Carlos Belo and Jose Ramos Horta.
  • Votes caused War

    Un general Kofi Annan and foreign ministers of Portugal and Indonesia agree on a political settlement for East Timore. East Timorese can vote for independence from Indonesia or autonomy within Indonesia. 78% chose independence while 98% chose ballots in the referendum. Indonesian forces clash with pro-independence supporters.
  • Constituent Assembly party elections

    First democratic governmental elections are held to vote for the members of East Timor’s first Constituent Assembly Pro-independence party Fretilin is announced the winner.
  • Newest Nation

    Xanana Gusmao is declared the President-elect of East Timor, the world’s latest nation.