Peruvian mine - Timeline

The Spanish Start Mining at La Oroya

A railroad to La Oroya is built, causing a major increase in local mining interests.

The Cerro de Pasco Corporation builds the city's first smelting facility for copper

A lead smelter is also built

Doe Run Mining acquires the mine from the government, in total disrepair and very unsanitary conditions.

A study is conducted showing high levels of toxic chemicals in the inhabitants' bloodstream

A study shows 99% of the city's children have lead poisoning.

A zinc refinery is constructed in La Oroya

Doe Run acquires an extended deadline so that they have more time to make the mine more environmentally friendly

Doe Run Mining continues to bypass the laws, and is still an unsafe city as far as air and water pollution is concerned.