-
Jan 1, 700
First People on Madagascar
In 700 A.D. settlers arrive in what is now Madagascar. -
Jan 1, 1500
First Europeans on Madagascar
In the year 1500, Portuguese explorer Diogo Dias becomes the first European known to visit the island. -
The First Colony is Made
In the year 1613, a pirate colony is established on Île Sainte-Marie, called Saint Mary’s Island in English. By the 1690s, the population is around 1,500. -
French Colony
Madagascar becomes a French colony. -
Uprising against the French
Nationalists seeking independence from French rule launch the Malagasy Uprising. It is unsuccessful. Thousands are killed during the conflict. -
Gains Independance against French
Madagascar gains independence from France as the Malagasy Republic. Philibert Tsiranana becomes its first president. -
The President Hands Down Power
Suffering from poor health, Tsiranana hands power to Major General Gabriel Ramanantsoa. -
Madagascar is Now Named
The country is renamed the Republic of Madagascar. Didier Ratsiraka is elected president. -
Weather Hits Hard
Tropical Cyclones Elita and Gafilo hit Madagascar and Mozambique. Thousands are left homeless. -
Oil is Money
During a time of record-high oil prices, Madagascar produces its first barrels of crude oil in 60 years. -
New and Current President is Elected
Hery Rajaonarimampianina becomes president. In 2015, Parliament votes to impeach him for misrule. The Constitutional Court later throws out the impeachment.