1858: Russia conquers Chechnya.
1922: Chechen autonomous region established.
1944: Stalin deports the entire Chechen and Ingush populations.
1957: Autonomous region restored.
1991: Chechen president declares independence.
1994: Russian troops quash independence movement.
1996: Peace agreement signed.
1997: Peace treaty signed, issue of independence is not resolved.
1999: Russian forces redeploy in Chechnya.
2000: Russian troops capture Grozny; much of the city is razed.
UK give diplomatic support for Russia's actions.
President Putin declares direct rule from Moscow.
2001: Human rights violations in Chechnya.
2002: Tony Blair gives diplomatic support to Russia despite atrocities.