The top 8 events that changed in Asia in 2008

April 10: Nepal holds a historic election

Last updated 12-31-08 at 11:38 a.m.

Former King Gyanendra

Millions of voters turned out to elect a 601-seat constituent assembly that would write a new constitution. Maoist rebels, who recently signed a peace agreement with the government that ended the guerrillas’ 10-year insurgency, vied for seats in the assembly. On April 21, it was reported that the Maoists won 120 out of 240 seats.

On May 28, the newly elected constituent assembly voted to dissolve the 239-year-old monarchy and form a republic. King Gyanendra was told to step down in the following 15 days.

TOP 8 EVENTS

• The top 8 events that changed Asia in 2008:

1. March 10: China cracks down on protests in Tibet using force — or not?

3. May 12: Earthquake kills thousands in China

4. May 18: North Korea hints at transparency — then takes it away

5. July 16: Milk scandal in China makes world headlines

6. Aug. 8: The Summer Games open, Michael Phelps makes history

7. Sept. 1: Thai protests turn violent, government declares state of emergency

8. Nov. 26: Terrorists attack Mumbai

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