History

A land full of mysteries: the history of Bhutan

All previous archaeological findings about the origin and history of Bhutan are more than incomplete. Based on the discovery of stone tools and megaliths, it is presumed that the first settlers arrived in the country around 2000 BC. It is occasionally speculated that Bhutan belonged to the Kingdom of Tibet or the North Indian kingdom of Kamarupa from the 7th to the 9th century - but there is no evidence for this. Also, very little is known about the indigenous people of the country, the Thepu, as they had no written culture.

Buddhism as the cradle of Bhutans's history

Towards the end of the 8th century, many Tibetans migrated to Bhutan, including countless monks. Their teachings increasingly displaced the Indian-Hindu influences that had previously prevailed in the country.

In the 12th century, Buddhism was declared the state religion. As a result, countless monasteries were built, which served as pillars of the feudal system. These monasteries still symbolize the deep religiosity of Bhutan's inhabitants and their history. Prayer flags flutter in the wind on mountains and buildings, seeking the blessings of the gods and warding off demons.

From many, one: the unification of Bhutan under Zhabdung Nawang Namgyal

Until the reign of Nawang Namgyal (from 1616 to 1651), feudal Bhutan consisted of many independent principalities. The recognized religious leader, who was awarded the title Zhabdung, unified the kingdom and established a theocratic leadership. Namgyal is considered the founder of the state and is revered as the founder of Bhutanese identity.

He organized the different regions into a written administered country, laying the foundation for today's Bhutanese society. Namgyal also gave Bhutan its current name: "Land of the Thunder Dragon." He built numerous dzongs and introduced the national attire - the Gho and the Kira - which was intended to give Bhutan its own cultural identity. After Namgyal's death, the country remained under the leadership of Buddhist priests.

Dzongs - Centers of religious and secular power

Anyone visiting Bhutan will inevitably be drawn to the many imposing palaces that tower over the valleys of the country. In earlier times, they were the seats of the Penlops and Desis, who acted as rulers of the various regions - until their power merged into the position of a sovereign.

Dzongs were major trade centers, served as army bases, and were venues for many religious festivals (Tshechus), some of which are still held there today. Over the centuries, these impressive buildings have become the symbols of Bhutan's culture.

Border conflict with the east India company

In 1772, the first conflicts with the British East India Company began, lasting almost a hundred years. The main point of contention was the so-called Duars - fertile farmland on the foothills of the southern Himalayas, which was essential for Bhutan's economy - and which was occupied by British India at every opportunity.

While military conflicts threatened in the border areas, a power struggle for control of the country raged in the heart of Bhutan. Eventually, Jigme Namgyal emerged as the first powerful Desi. He appointed his son, Ugyen Wangchuck, as Penlop of Paro. After his father's death, Wangchuck supported British India in occupying Tibet. This increased his power, and he was elected the first Druk Gyalpo - Dragon King - in 1907.

He introduced the title of Maharaja, from which the Wangchuck dynasty emerged. The now good relations with the East India Company culminated in the 1910 Treaty of Punakha, according to which British India committed to not interfering in Bhutan's internal affairs. In return, the country's foreign policy was to be guided by instructions and advice from the English government.

This claim passed to Delhi after India's independence. For this reason, for example, the German Embassy in Delhi is still responsible for all matters related to Bhutan.

Friendly relations with India

Bhutan has maintained a long-standing friendship with its neighbor India. India takes care of Bhutan's foreign relations and provides economic assistance to the small Himalayan kingdom in the form of road construction and electricity supply through hydroelectric power plants.

Bhutan's Path to constitutional monarchy

Although a parliament was established in 1953, in 1964, all state power was transferred to Bhutan's king. However, just four years later, Bhutan became a constitutional monarchy, granting the parliament some powers, such as specific legislative rights. Since then, the executive branch has been formed by the royal council and the council of ministers.

King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck campaigned for the abolition of feudal structures. This marked the end of serfdom in Bhutan. He also established a comprehensive education system.

In February 1971, Bhutan was admitted to the UN. Its long-standing sovereignty was recognized under international law.

Bhutan's fourth king, Jigme Singye Wangchuck, limited his own power in 1998 and placed his position under parliamentary authority - against their will.

The first political elections were held in 2008. A constitution was promulgated, declaring Bhutan a democratic constitutional monarchy.