| January 14 |
The Supreme Soviet of Azerbaijan dissolves
the Armenian-populated Shahumian district north of N.K.A.O. |
| April-May |
With the help of Soviet tanks and helicopters,
Armenians in Getashen and Martunashen regions of Azerbaijan are forcibly
driven from their homes. The refugees flee to Armenia and Moscow. |
| April |
After referendum approval, Georgian
parliament declares Georgia independent of Soviet Union. |
| May |
Gamsakhurdia becomes first president
of Georgia, elected directly in multiparty election. |
| August |
Attempted coup against Gorbachev in
Moscow fails. |
| September 2 |
The Nagorno Karabagh Regional Council
and the Governing Council of the Shahumian District in a joint session
proclaim the Republic of Nagorno Karabagh (N.K.R.). |
| September 21 |
Voters in Armenia overwhelmingly approve
independence in a national referendum |
| October |
Azerbaijani referendum declares Azerbaijan
independent of Soviet Union |
| October |
Ter-Petrosian elected president of Armenia. |
| October |
The Supreme Soviet of Azerbaijan annuls
the autonomous status of N.K.A.O. |
| October 25 |
AT&T begins direct-dial long-distance
service in Armenia |
| December |
Soviet forces begin to withdraw from
N.K.R. as an Azeri offensive builds southward as far as Shushi. |
| December |
Soviet Union officially dissolved. |
| December 10 |
Referendum held in Nagorno Karabagh
on independence. |
| December |
Armenians in Nagorno-Karabakh declare
independent state as fighting there continues. |
| December 25 |
U.S. President George Bush announces
that the United States formally recognizes the independent Republic
of Armenia. |