Africa/Eastern Africa
Mauritius
Port Louis
1.2 Mio
2 040 km²
Mauritian rupee
Coastal
English, French, Mauritian Creole
Historical Events
975 - First Discovery
Arab sailors are speculated to be the first to discover the uninhabited island.
1507 - Portuguese Arrival
Portuguese sailors visit the island, marking European interest in Mauritius.
1598 - Dutch Claim
A Dutch fleet takes possession of the island, renaming it after Maurice, Prince of Orange.
1715 - French Colonization
France begins colonization of the island, renaming it 'Isle de France'.
1810 - British Seizure
The United Kingdom seizes Mauritius under the Treaty of Paris.
1965 - Chagos Archipelago Split
The UK separates the Chagos Archipelago from Mauritius, leading to population displacement.
1968 - Independence
Mauritius gains independence from British rule.
1992 - Abolition of Monarchy
Mauritius abolishes the monarchy and establishes a presidency.
2025 - Sovereignty Agreement
A bilateral agreement is signed recognizing Mauritius' sovereignty over the Chagos Islands.