China invaded Tibet on October 7, 1950, when the People's Liberation Army (PLA) crossed into eastern Tibet and captured the town of Chamdo on October 19, 1950. This marked the beginning of a military occupation that led to Tibet being forcibly integrated into the People's Republic of China. Following the invasion, under duress, Tibetan representatives signed the Seventeen Point Agreement in May 1951, effectively subordinating Tibet to Chinese control while promising some autonomy that was later violated. The Chinese government calls this process a "peaceful liberation," whereas Tibetans largely consider it an invasion and occupation.