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Tibet Overview: History
Ancient history | 20th century | Recent key events | History books
The 14th and reigning Dalai Lama was installed in 1940. In 1949, China fell to communist rule, headed by Mao Tse-tung. In 1950, the Chinese communist government marched into Tibet and captured parts of the north-east (particularly the province of Amdo). The Tibetan army was ill-equipped to hold back the massive Chinese army. When India protested against its actions, China declared that Tibet was an integral part of China and that India should not interfere with its internal affairs.
The years from 1950 to 1959 led to a massive transformation of Tibet and years of hardship for the Tibetan people. Despite the young Dalai Lama's visits to India and efforts to secure international support for the sovereignty of his state, he was not able to prevent the Chinese occupation of Tibet.
The Dalai Lama remained in Lhasa until 1959, but by that time Tibet was a country under siege. In 1959 the Dalai Lama was forced to depart Lhasa in fear of his life.
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Gilded copper temple rooftop inside
Tashilunpo monastery, Shigatse
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