Libya became independent in 1957 with King Idris al-Sanusi as leader.

1969 - King Idris deposed in military coup by Col Muammar Gaddafi.

2011 February – Demonstrations in Benghazi against Ghaddafi’s government.

2011 March - UN Security Council authorises a no-fly zone over Libya.

2011August - Rebels overrun Col. Gaddafi's residence in Tripoli.

2011 October - Col. Gaddafi is captured and killed.

2012 January - Clashes erupt between former rebels in Benghazi.

2012 February - Scores killed in tribal clashes between Arab Zawi and African Tebu groups.

2012 June - Government struggles to control local militias in Zintan in the West.

2012 August - Transitional government hands over power to the General National Congress.

2012 September – U.S. Ambassador and three staff killed in Benghazi Consulate.

2012 October - Pro-government forces put down armed uprising in Bani Walid.

2012 November - Benghazi police chief is assassinated by unknown gunmen.

2013 April - Government continues to struggle to impose authority on militia groups.

2013 April – Militia group briefly abducts Prime Minister Zidan's aide outside Tripoli.

2013 April – Gunmen surround ministries in Tripoli, demanding the dismissal of Gaddafi-era civil servants.

Source: BBC