The recorded history of Nepal began in the
7th or 8th century when a group of people called the Kiratis arrived
from East of what is now present day Nepal. Buddhism was the religion
during this time period, but by 200 AD Buddhism was declining in
popularity and was being replaced by Hinduism. Hinduism was introduced
by Licchavis who invaded from northern India.
A period of turmoil called the "Dark Ages" happened around 880
AD. A few centuries later saw a renaissance of Nepali culture. The Malla
dynasty reached its pinnacle in the 15th century. The shah dynasty then
became the important dynasty, ruling until the mid 1840's.
After WWII a king was elected and ruled until his death. His son took
over the throne in 1972 and remained a king, even though he appointed a
prime minister and a cabinet. In 1989 the Nepalese rose up against the
king in a movement called the "People's Movement". After much
violence the king resigned and by 1991 Nepal was a democratic state.
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