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Kuwait becomes a British protectorate
Fearing direct rule from Turkey, Sheikh Mubarak "the Great" strikes a deal with Britain and Kuwait becomes a protectorate. Britain provides naval protection in return for Kuwait allowing London to control its foreign affairs. -
Treaty of Uqayr
Saudi Arabian-Kuwaiti boundries are established -
Large oil reserves discovered
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Kuwaiti independence
Kuwait becomes independent with the end of the British protectorate; the sheikh becomes an emir and the country joins the Arab League. -
Elections held for National Assembly
The innogural Kuwaiti National Assemby elections are held under the terms of a newly drafted constitution -
Iraq invades Kuwait
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Death of Sheikh Jaber Al-Sabah
The emir, Sheikh Jaber, dies. The crown prince, Sheikh Saad, succeeds him but is removed days later because of concerns about his ailing health. Sheikh Sabah al-Ahmad is sworn in as emir. -
Demonstrations for reform
Hundreds of young people demonstrate for reform, inspired by a wave of protests across the Arab world.
