Timeline of Tonga

Chronology

7 events spanning the history of Tonga. BCE/CE dating.

1. 1616

   Dutch explorers are the first Europeans to visit Tonga.

   Dutch explorers are the first Europeans to visit Tonga.

2. 1773 – 1777

   British explorer Captain James Cook visits Tonga three times.

   British explorer Captain James Cook visits Tonga three times.

3. 1773 – 1777

   Taufa’ahau Tupou assumes the name of George Tupou I and establishes Tongan monarchy.

   Taufa’ahau Tupou assumes the name of George Tupou I and establishes Tongan monarchy.

4. 1845

   Tonga was united into a Polynesian kingdom.

   Tonga was united into a Polynesian kingdom.

5. 1970

   Tonga becomes fully independent within the British Commonwealth.

   Tonga ceases to be a British protectorate and becomes fully independent within the British Commonwealth.

6. 1999

   Tonga joined the United Nations.

   Tonga joined the United Nations.

7. 2009

   At least nine Tongans die in a tsunami.

   At least nine Tongans die in a tsunami after an earthquake centerd between the north Tongan island of Niuatoputapu and Samoa.