1922    A referendum in Rhodesia rejects the country's annexation to the South African Union.

1963    The Central African Federation officially collapses and splits into Zambia, Malawi and Rhodesia.

1964    The Federation of Rhodesia and Nyasaland is divided into the independent republics of Zambia and Malawi, and the British-controlled Rhodesia.

1964    Northern Rhodesia gains independence from the United Kingdom and becomes the Republic of Zambia (Southern Rhodesia remained a colony)

1965    In Rhodesia (modern-day Zimbabwe), the white-minority government of Ian Smith unilaterally declares independence.

1970    Rhodesia declares itself a republic, breaking its last links with the British crown.

1972    Rhodesia is expelled by the IOC for its racist policies.

1979    The first black-led government of Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe) in 90 years takes power.

1979    Rhodesia changes its name to Zimbabwe-Rhodesia.

1979    Lancaster House Agreement: An independence agreement for Rhodesia is signed in London by Lord Carrington, Sir Ian Gilmour, Robert Mugabe, Joshua Nkomo, Bishop Abel Muzorewa and S.C. Mundawarara.

1980    The Republic of Zimbabwe (formerly Rhodesia) comes into being, with Canaan Banana as the country's first President.