Settlers from Tibet in the 8th century formed the basis of what was later to become the Burmese people. From 1272 until the 16th century, the country formed part of the Chinese-Mongolian empire. The British made Burma part of the Indian empire in 1886. After numerous nationalist rebellions, the Government of Burma Act of 1935 allowed for a level of internal self-government from 1937. The Japanese occupation led to independence in 1943. This independence was later ratified by the British and Burma left the Commonwealth with full independence on 1 January 1948.
Political instability led to a military take-over by General U Ne Win in 1962. The military regime founded the Burmese Socialist Program Party (BSPP), the only legal party since 28 March 1962.
The new single-party constitution was confirmed by referendum from 15 to 31 December 1973 and became official on 4 January 1974.
This single-party people's republic has one legislative house, the People's Assembly, with 475 seats, elected every 4 years. First elections took place in January and February of 1974.
New laws regarding political parties came into force in September 1988.
