HISTORIC TIMELINE
975First Discovery
Arab sailors are speculated to be the first to discover the uninhabited island.
1507Portuguese Arrival
Portuguese sailors visit the island, marking European interest in Mauritius.
1598Dutch Claim
A Dutch fleet takes possession of the island, renaming it after Maurice, Prince of Orange.
1715French Colonization
France begins colonization of the island, renaming it 'Isle de France'.
1810British Seizure
The United Kingdom seizes Mauritius under the Treaty of Paris.
1965Chagos Archipelago Split
The UK separates the Chagos Archipelago from Mauritius, leading to population displacement.
1968Independence
Mauritius gains independence from British rule.
1992Abolition of Monarchy
Mauritius abolishes the monarchy and establishes a presidency.
2025Sovereignty Agreement
A bilateral agreement is signed recognizing Mauritius' sovereignty over the Chagos Islands.