The name Darjeeling is thought to be a derivation of 'Dorjeeling' meaning the place of the Dorjee, the majestic thunderbolt of the Lamaist religion. In fact, the famous Buddhist Monastery standing at the top of the Observatory hill was known by this name. The district was the part of the dominions of the Raja of Sikkim upto the beginning of the 18th century.
1839 was the most important year in the history of Darjeeling, the year the road which connected the hill station with the plains 'its life line' was built. Right from the start it had been pointed out by the planners. No road-No Darjeeling, and 1839 was the critical year when the decision was finally taken to go ahead with the plans.
The freedom movement in the district was much tempered by its moderate political ideology. One outstanding incident connected with the "terrorist movement" was the attempt on the life of Sir John Anderson, the Governor of Bengal, on May 8, 1934 by Bengali terrorists. The district with the rest of India attained independence as part of India in August 1947. According to the Constitution of India, the district no longer enjoys special privileges and all statutes, except the Bengal Tenancy act in certain of its particulars, apply to it.
However, the movement in the late 80's and early 90's has led to the formation of Darjeeling Gorkha Hill Council. This has resulted in more autonomy at the regional level with the participation of local people through their elected representatives by forming local council for management and development of the area.
