The Kingdom of Tonga is an island nation in Polynesia comprising 171 islands, with 45 inhabited, spanning 750 square kilometers within a 700,000 square kilometer area in the South Pacific. With a 2021 population of 104,494, Tonga stretches 800 kilometers north-south and is surrounded by Fiji, Wallis and Futuna, Samoa, New Caledonia, Vanuatu, Niue, and Kermadec. Located 1,800 kilometers from New Zealand, Tonga is a member of the Commonwealth.
May 1900: Treaty of Friendship with Britain
On May 18, 1900, Tonga signed a Treaty of Friendship with Britain, becoming a protected state. This occurred after attempts by European settlers and rival Tongan chiefs to overthrow the successor of Tāufaʻāhau as king were unsuccessful.
1900: British Protected State
From 1900 to 1970, Tonga became a British protected state, with the United Kingdom managing its foreign affairs under a Treaty of Friendship, but Tonga retained its sovereignty.
1901: British Consul Appointed
From 1901 to 1970, the highest-ranking permanent representative Britain stationed in Tonga was a British consul.
1918: Influenza Pandemic
The 1918 flu pandemic, which arrived in Tonga via a ship from New Zealand, resulted in the deaths of approximately 1,800 Tongans, representing a fatality rate of about 8%.
1928: Establishment of the Free Wesleyan Church as the state religion
In 1928, Queen Salote Tupou III, a member of the Free Wesleyan Church of Tonga, declared it as the state religion. The chief pastor of this church plays a significant role in the coronation of Tonga's monarchs, representing both the people and the church while anointing and crowning the new king or queen. However, this decision led to the separation of the Church of Tonga from the Free Wesleyan Church in the same year, marking a point of religious division.
1965: King Tāufaʻāhau Tupou IV's Reign Begins
King Tāufaʻāhau Tupou IV ruled Tonga from 1965 to 2006.
1965: Queen Salote Tupou III's Death
Queen Salote Tupou III of Tonga passed away in 1965.
1970: End of British Protection
Tonga's status as a protected state under Britain concluded in 1970.
1970: End of British Protection
Tonga's protected state status ended in 1970, as arranged by Queen Salote Tupou III before her death in 1965.
1970: Commonwealth Membership
Tonga became a member of the Commonwealth in 1970 due to its British ties, unusually as a nation with its own monarch.
September 1974: Bank of Tonga opens
In September 1974, the country's first commercial trading bank, the Bank of Tonga, opened.
1976: Tonga's population grows from 32,000 to over 90,000
Despite emigration, Tonga's population grew from about 32,000 in the 1930s to more than 90,000 by 1976.
February 1979: Highest temperature recorded in Tonga
The highest temperature recorded in Tonga was 35 °C (95 °F) on 11 February 1979 in Vava'u.
1987: Tonga begins exporting squash to Japan
Beginning in 1987, Tonga began exporting squash to Japan, which brought relief to Tonga's struggling economy. However, local farmers became increasingly wary of the Japanese market due to price fluctuations, and the huge financial risks involved.
1987: Rugby World Cup Debut
Tonga's national rugby union team, known as the ʻIkale Tahi or Sea Eagles, made their debut at the Rugby World Cup, marking their entry into the prestigious tournament.
September 1994: Coldest temperature recorded in Tonga
The coldest temperature recorded in Tonga was 8.7 °C (47.7 °F) on 8 September 1994 in Fua'amotu.
1995: First Rugby League World Cup Appearance
Tonga marked its presence in the Rugby League World Cup for the first time in 1995, signaling a foray into a new rugby code.
1995: Rugby World Cup Victory
In the 1995 Rugby World Cup, Tonga secured a victory against Côte d'Ivoire, winning 29-11, demonstrating their growing presence in international rugby.
1996: Olympic Silver Medal
Tonga celebrated a historic moment at the 1996 Summer Olympics in Atlanta when Paea Wolfgramm secured a silver medal in super heavyweight boxing, marking the nation's first and only Olympic medal.
1996: Tonga Chamber of Commerce and Industry is incorporated
The Tonga Chamber of Commerce and Industry, incorporated in 1996, endeavours to represent the interests of its members, private sector businesses, and to promote economic growth in the Kingdom.
1998: Freedom of Religion
The revised Constitution of Tonga in 1998 established the principle of freedom of religion, ensuring that Tonga has no official state religion.
September 1999: United Nations Membership
Tonga joined the United Nations in September 1999.
1999: Rugby World Cup Victory Against Italy
During the 1999 Rugby World Cup, Tonga faced Italy and emerged victorious with a score of 28-25, showcasing their ability to compete at a high level.
2000: Tongan Diaspora in the United States
In 2000, the United States was home to a significant Tongan diaspora, with 36,840 Tongans residing in the country. This highlights the US as a preferred destination for Tongan emigrants.
2001: Two-thirds of agricultural land used for root crops
As of 2001, two-thirds of agricultural land in Tonga was dedicated to growing root crops.
2001: Demographics of Tonga
In 2001, Tongans, who are Polynesian with a mix of Melanesian heritage, made up over 98% of the population. Around 1.5% were of mixed Tongan descent, and the remaining population consisted of Europeans, mixed Europeans, and other Pacific Islanders. Notably, there were about 3,000 to 4,000 Chinese residents, representing 3% to 4% of the total population.
2003: Constitutional Amendment on Press Freedom
In 2003, the Tongan government introduced a constitutional amendment aimed at controlling the press by implementing licensing requirements and restricting press freedom to safeguard the monarchy's image.
February 2004: Press Censorship
By February 2004, newspapers such as Taimi ʻo Tonga (Tongan Times), Keleʻa, and Matangi Tonga were denied licenses under the new act that restricted press freedom.
December 2004: Tongan troops deployed to Iraq
In December 2004, Tonga, in support of the American "coalition of the willing" action in Iraq, deployed more than 40 soldiers to Iraq as part of an American force. The contingent returned home on 17 December 2004.
2005: Civil Service Strike and Unrest
In 2005, the government spent several weeks in negotiations with striking civil servants before reaching a resolution. The resulting civil unrest extended beyond Tonga, with protests even occurring outside the King's residence in New Zealand.
2005: Tonga becomes eligible to join the World Trade Organization
In 2005, Tonga became eligible to become a member of the World Trade Organization.
February 2006: Prime Minister's Resignation
Prime Minister Prince ʻAhoʻeitu ʻUnuakiʻotonga Tukuʻaho (Lavaka Ata ʻUlukālala) unexpectedly resigned on February 11, 2006, relinquishing his cabinet positions. He was succeeded in the interim by Feleti Sevele, the then-elected minister of labour.
July 2006: Prince Tuʻipelehake ʻUluvalu's Death
On July 5, 2006, Prince Tuʻipelehake ʻUluvalu, aged 55, his wife, and their driver lost their lives in a car accident caused by another driver in Menlo Park, California. The Prince was a nephew of the king and the cochairman of the constitutional reform commission.
September 2006: King George Tupou V's Ascension
George Tupou V ascended to the throne in September 2006, succeeding his father.
November 2006: Riots in Nukuʻalofa
Riots erupted in Nukuʻalofa on November 16, 2006, when the parliament appeared set to adjourn without making progress on democratic reforms. Pro-democracy protesters resorted to arson and looting, targeting shops, offices, and government buildings, resulting in significant damage and fatalities.
2006: Nukuʻalofa riots
In 2006, the Nukuʻalofa riots primarily targeted Chinese-owned businesses, resulting in the emigration of several hundred Chinese individuals. Consequently, the Chinese population in Tonga decreased to around 300.
2006: King Tāufaʻāhau Tupou IV's Reign Ends
King Tāufaʻāhau Tupou IV's reign concluded in 2006.
2006: Closure of UK High Commission
The United Kingdom closed its High Commission in Tonga in 2006.
July 2007: Tonga becomes a full member of the WTO
After an initial voluntary delay, Tonga became a full member of the WTO on 27 July 2007.
2007: Rugby World Cup Success
The 2007 Rugby World Cup marked a successful campaign for Tonga, where they secured victories in their first two matches. They defeated the USA 25-15 and Samoa 19-15, showcasing their competitiveness on the international stage.
2007: Tongan Parliament amends citizenship laws to allow dual citizenship
In 2007, in recognition of the contributions made by Tongans living abroad, the Tongan Parliament amended citizenship laws to allow Tongans to hold dual citizenship.
2007: Tonga's Best Rugby World Cup Performance Before 2007
Prior to their success in 2007, Tonga's best performance in the Rugby World Cup was in 1995, where they celebrated a victory against Côte d'Ivoire with a score of 29-11.
2007: Second contingent of Tongan troops sent to Iraq
In 2007, following up on their initial deployment in 2004, a second contingent of Tongan troops was sent to Iraq in continued support for the coalition.
July 2008: King George Tupou V Relinquishes Power
In July 2008, King George Tupou V declared his intention to cede a significant portion of his authority, transferring his involvement in daily government affairs to the Prime Minister. This decision aimed to prepare the monarchy for the anticipated increase in elected representation in the parliament by 2010.
2008: Forbes magazine ranks Tonga the sixth-most corrupt country in the world
In 2008, Forbes magazine named Tonga the sixth most corrupt country in the world.
2008: Two more contingents of Tongan troops sent to Iraq and end of deployment
In 2008, Tonga sent two more contingents of troops to Iraq in support of the coalition. Tongan involvement concluded at the end of 2008 with no reported loss of life.
2008: Rugby League World Cup Victories
In the 2008 Rugby League World Cup, Tonga displayed their prowess by securing victories against both Ireland and Scotland, marking a successful tournament run.
2008: Onset of the global economic crisis impacts remittances from the overseas Tongan population
Since the onset of the 2008 global economic crisis, remittances from the overseas Tongan population have been declining.
January 2009: "Look East" Foreign Policy
As of January 2009, Tonga's foreign policy was characterized as "Look East," emphasizing stronger diplomatic and economic ties with Asian nations.
2009: Disbandment of the Pacific Islanders Rugby Union Team
The Pacific Islanders rugby union team, of which Tonga was a contributing member through the Tonga Rugby Football Union, was disbanded in 2009. This marked a significant change in the landscape of Pacific Island rugby representation.
2010: Tonga develops the 2010–2020 Tonga Energy Road Map
With the assistance of IRENA, Tonga has developed the 2010–2020 Tonga Energy Road Map, which aims for a 50% reduction of diesel importation. This was to be accomplished through a range of appropriate renewable technologies, including wind and solar, as well as innovative efficiencies.
2010: Transition to Semi-Constitutional Monarchy
Tonga transitioned from an absolute monarchy to a semi-constitutional monarchy in 2010, following legislative reforms that paved the way for partial representative elections.
2010: Increased Elected Representation
Tonga aimed to have most of its parliament elected by 2010.
2010: Tonga agrees to support Britain's International Security Assistance Force in Afghanistan
In 2010, Brigadier General Tauʻaika ʻUtaʻatu, commander of the Tonga Defence Services, signed an agreement in London committing a minimum of 200 troops to co-operate with Britain's International Security Assistance Force in Afghanistan.
March 2011: Euromoney Country Risk rankings places Tonga as 165th safest investment destination
The March 2011 Euromoney Country Risk rankings ranked Tonga as the 165th-safest investment destination in the world.
2011: Christian Faith in Tonga
As of 2011, official government census data indicated that a significant majority of the population, 90%, identified with a Christian church or sect. This highlights the strong influence of Christianity on everyday life in Tonga, where activities like commerce and entertainment are halted on Sundays, adhering to the Sabbath declared sacred by the Tongan constitution.
2011: Obesity in Tonga
In 2011, based on the NIH interpretation of body mass index (BMI) data, 90% of Tonga's adult population was categorized as overweight, with over 60% falling into the obese category. This indicates a significant health concern, particularly among Tongan females aged 15–85, where 70% were classified as obese.
2011: Rugby World Cup Performance
Tonga participated in the 2011 Rugby World Cup, where they achieved notable victories against Japan and France. They beat Japan with a score of 31-18 and triumphed over France, ranked 5th at the time, with a score of 19-14.
March 2012: King George Tupou V's Death and Succession
King George Tupou V was diagnosed with pneumonia and later leukemia in March 2012, leading to his passing on March 18, 2012. His brother, Tupou VI, succeeded him.
2013: Impact of Western Influence on Tonga
By 2013, almost 98% of Tonga's population identified as Christian. This transformation in religious beliefs reflects the lasting impact of Western traders and missionaries who arrived in the 19th century, significantly altering Tongan culture.
April 2014: Tongan troops complete task supporting Britain's International Security Assistance Force in Afghanistan
In April 2014, Tongan troops completed their task of cooperating with Britain's International Security Assistance Force in Afghanistan. This task involved a deployment of a minimum of 200 troops, and upon completion, the UK presented Operational Service Medals to each of the soldiers involved during a parade held in Tonga.
2014: High Obesity Rates
World Health Organization data from 2014 revealed that Tonga has one of the highest obesity rates globally, ranking fourth in terms of mean body mass index.
July 2015: Coronation of Tupou VI
Tupou VI was crowned king in July 2015.
2016: Pacific Centre for Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency established
The Pacific Centre for Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency was established in Tonga in 2016 to advise the private sector on related policy matters, provide capacity development and promote business investment. The centre facilitates a financial mechanism offering competitive grants for start-ups to spur the adoption of renewable energy by the business sector.
2017: Rugby League World Cup Upset
The 2017 Rugby League World Cup witnessed a significant upset orchestrated by Tonga. Bolstered by high-profile players who switched allegiances to represent their Tongan heritage, Tonga defeated New Zealand in a historic match in Hamilton on November 11th.
2018: Tonga generates 10% of electricity from renewable sources
As of 2018, Tonga was generating 10% of its electricity from renewable sources.
2018: Tongan Diaspora in New Zealand
By 2018, New Zealand had a substantial Tongan population, with 82,389 Tongans residing there. This diaspora plays a crucial role in Tonga's economy through remittances sent back home.
2018: Winter Olympics Participation
Pita Taufatofua made history as the first Tongan athlete to compete in both the Summer and Winter Olympics. He participated in the 2018 Winter Olympics in Pyeongchang, South Korea, showcasing Tonga's growing presence in winter sports.
2019: Construction begins on a 6-megawatt solar farm on Tongatapu
In 2019, Tonga announced the construction of a 6-megawatt solar farm on Tongatapu. The plant will be the second-largest solar plant in the Pacific upon completion.
January 2020: Re-establishment of UK High Commission
The United Kingdom re-established its High Commission in Tonga in January 2020 after a 14-year closure.
2020: Energy consumption in Tonga projected to reach 66 GWh
Energy consumption in Tonga is projected to reach around 66 gigawatt hours by 2020. The country aimed to have 50% of its energy come from renewable sources by 2020.
2020: Tonga aims for 50% reduction of diesel importation
By 2020, Tonga aimed to reduce its reliance on imported diesel for energy by 50%.
October 2021: First COVID-19 Case
Tonga identified its first case of COVID-19 in late October 2021. The case was linked to a passenger arriving from New Zealand who tested positive for the virus.
2021: WorldRiskReport ranks Tonga as the third-highest country for disaster risk
According to the WorldRiskReport 2021, Tonga ranks third among the countries with the highest disaster risk worldwide – mainly due to the country's exposure to multiple natural hazards.
2021: Population Statistics
As of 2021, Tonga had a population of 104,494, with 70% residing on the main island, Tongatapu, according to Johnson's Tribune.
2021: Growing Chinese Influence
By 2021, China had established significant influence in Tonga, providing funding for infrastructure projects, including a new royal palace, and holding a substantial portion of the country's external debt.
January 2022: Volcanic Eruption and Tsunami
The Hunga Tonga–Hunga Haʻapai volcano erupted in January 2022, triggering a tsunami that impacted parts of the archipelago, including Nukuʻalofa. The eruption severely affected Tonga, disrupting communications and resulting in four deaths.
2023: Port Vila Call for a Just Transition to a Fossil Fuel Free Pacific
In 2023, the governments of Tonga, Fiji, Niue, the Solomon Islands, Tuvalu and Vanuatu launched the "Port Vila Call for a Just Transition to a Fossil Fuel Free Pacific", calling for the phasing out of fossil fuels. The agreement advocated for a "rapid and just transition" to renewable energy, and for strengthening environmental law, including introducing the crime of ecocide.
2023: Tukufakaholo, Tongan Contemporary Exhibition
The Bergman Gallery in Auckland, New Zealand, hosted "Tukufakaholo, Tongan Contemporary," an exhibition showcasing the works of eight Tongan artists. This event highlighted the surge in contemporary Tongan art, with many artists based in New Zealand making their mark on the international art scene.