Historical Events in Cali, Colombia

• 1536: Cali is founded by Sebastián de Belalcázar, a Spanish conquistador.
• 1810: Cali joins the struggle for independence from Spanish rule, becoming part of the United Provinces of New Granada.
• 1910: The railroad reaches Cali, boosting the city's economic growth and connecting it with other major Colombian cities.
• 1971: The Pan American Games are hosted in Cali, showcasing the city's sporting facilities and infrastructure on an international stage.
• 1985: Cali becomes the center of the Cali Cartel, one of the most powerful drug trafficking organizations in Colombia.
• 1992: The Cali Cartel is dismantled by law enforcement agencies, marking a significant turning point in the city's fight against drug trafficking.
• 1994: The San Antonio Church and the San Francisco Church, both important historical landmarks, are declared National Monuments.
• 1995: The Cali Metro, the first rapid transit system in Colombia, begins operations, improving transportation infrastructure in the city.
• 2013: Cali hosts the World Games, an international multi-sport event showcasing non-Olympic sports, promoting the city's sports facilities and tourism.
• 2023: Cali is named the World Capital of Salsa, highlighting its rich salsa music and dance culture on a global scale.