The earliest human settlements in Bhutan likely appeared after the Ice Age, though little is documented about the region's prehistoric era. Bhutan's recorded history began with the introduction of Buddhism in the 7th century when Guru Rinpoche, also known as Padmasambhava, visited the area and founded several monasteries. In 1865, the Treaty of Sinchula was signed between Bhutan and Britain, granting Bhutan an annual subsidy in exchange for ceding certain border territories. By 1907, with British guidance, Bhutan transitioned into a monarchy. In 1910, a treaty was established, ensuring that Britain would not interfere in Bhutan's internal governance while overseeing its foreign affairs. After India's independence in 1947, these responsibilities were transferred to the Indian government. The 1949 Indo-Bhutan Treaty formalized the return of Bhutanese territories annexed by the British, established annual subsidies, and outlined India's role in defense and foreign relations. In December 2006, King Jigme Singye Wangchuck abdicated the throne in favor of his eldest son, Crown Prince Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, who was subsequently crowned as the fifth Druk Gyalpo in November 2008. Educated at prestigious institutions in Boston and Oxford, the Fifth King is deeply respected across Bhutan for his leadership and vision.