Timeline of Yemen

Chronology

20 events spanning the history of Yemen. BCE/CE dating.

1. 1000 BCE

   A state centered around ancient trade routes rises.

   A state centered around ancient trade routes rises. It is called Saba, most of its power is based on agricultural wealth arising from the famous dam of Ma’rib, and the trade of frankincense. The citizens mostly practice a worship of idols.

2. 395

   The Holy Roman Emperor Theodisius makes Christianity the new state religion.

   The Holy Roman Emperor Theodisius makes Christianity the new state religion. Christian reluctance to trade and use frankincense, upsets Saba’s trade and sends the state into decline.

3. 575

   The Persians take control of a weakened Saba.

   The Persians take control of a weakened Saba.

4. 628

   The Persian governor of Yemen converts to Islam.

   The Persian governor of Yemen converts to Islam, followed by the rest of his subjects. During this time, the first Yemeni mosque is built in Sana’a.

5. 628 – 1962

   The Zayidi dynasty takes power in the north as a strict Islamic state.

   The Zayidi dynasty takes power in the north as a strict Islamic state.

6. 1454 – 1967

   The Kathirids take power in the south.

   The Kathirids take power in the south and remain the dominant force in the region until 1967.

7. 1500 – 1600

   Ottomans absorb part of Yemen into their empire but are expelled in the 1600s.

   Ottomans absorb part of Yemen into their empire but are expelled in the 1600s.

8. 1839

   Aden comes under British rule.

   Aden comes under British rule, and when the Suez Canal opens in 1869 serves as a major refuelling port.

9. 1849

   The Turks attempt occupation again, and resistance develops.

   The Turks attempt occupation again, and resistance develops.

10. 1869

    Suez Canal opens, linking the Mediterranean Sea with the Red Sea.

    Suez Canal opens, linking the Mediterranean Sea with the Red Sea.