This fusion has resulted in the unique Newari culture that is reflected in the valley’s outstanding art and architecture. Kathmandu was once run and ruled by Malla Kings during the 15th and 16th century. The unification of Nepal in 1768 by Gorkhas King Prithivi Narayan Shah signalled the end of the valley’s division. The Nepali Language spoken by the Khas of western Nepal replaced Newari as the country’s language of administration. During the period of Rana rule, most of Kathmandu's people became much poorer and the Hindu caste system became much more rigid. On the other hand, human slavery, sacrifice and sati (widow immolation) were abolished. On 15 January 1934, Kathmandu was struck by a massive earthquake which resulted in 4,296 fatalities and ruined many of Kathmandu's palaces and temples. In November 1950 they revolted. In 1951, King Tribhuvan, a Shah, was anointed ruler and formed a government composed of Ranas and members of the newly formed Nepali Congress Party. But power remained in the king’s hands. After months of protests, the Nepalese were finally granted democracy in 1989. In 1956, the first sealed road connected the city with India. Another highway opened a decade later and international air services began in 1974. Foreign aid began pouring in, bringing with it foreign aid workers and new prosperity for the city. Kathmandu's population exploded and in the 1960s, tourists began flooding in. Following the massacre of the King and many of his family members in June 2001, widespread rioting took over the streets. Not even the new backpacker district, Thamel, could escape the trouble as a curfew was imposed across the city. The peaceful, heavenly-city image has been shattered and Kathmandu is entering a delicate period in its relationship with the rest of the world. | 
