Darknet History
15+ years of hidden network evolution, from early anonymous networks to modern marketplaces and their takedowns.
Historical Eras
Origins (1990-2000)
The birth of anonymity networks and early darknet concepts
Silk Road Era (2011-2013)
The marketplace that changed everything
Evolution & Agora (2014-2015)
The post-Silk Road marketplace boom
AlphaBay & Hansa (2015-2017)
Rise and coordinated takedown
Modern Era (2018-Present)
Current state of darknet markets
Complete Timeline
Interactive chronological overview
Key Events Timeline
March 2000
Freenet Released
Ian Clarke releases Freenet, one of the earliest anonymous networks.
September 2002
Tor Project Begins
The Onion Router released to the public.
February 2011
Silk Road Launches
Ross Ulbricht launches the first major darknet marketplace.
October 2013
Silk Road Seized
FBI arrests Ross Ulbricht and seizes Silk Road.
July 2017
Operation Bayonet
AlphaBay and Hansa taken down in coordinated operation.