TIMELINE

1 1493 - Christopher Columbus discovers America.
2 1814 - Spain regains control of Chile.
3 1818 - O'Hoggins signs the Chilean Declaration of Independence.
4 1857 - The Civil Code of Chile comes in effect.
5 1859 - Chile's revolution makes Antonio Varas renounce to his candidature.
6 1861 - Jose Joaquin Pérez is elected president.
7 1953 - Communist Party is banned.
8 1984 - Argentina and Chile sign Peace and Friendship Treaty.
9 2006/January - Michelle Bachelet wins presidential elections.
10 2006/ August - China and Chile sign free-trade deal