TIMELINE: Microsoft attempt to buy Yahoo

(Reuters) - Microsoft Corp (MSFT.O: Quote, Profile, Research, Stock Buzz) on Saturday ended a three-month public effort to buy Yahoo Inc (YHOO.O: Quote, Profile, Research, Stock Buzz).

Following is a timeline of key events in the corporate courtship, beginning with private talks held before the software company announced its offer for the Web pioneer.

Late 2006/early 2007 - Microsoft and Yahoo discuss various partnerships, including a merger.

February 2007 - Yahoo tells Microsoft it is not the right time to discuss a takeover as Yahoo board sees great potential from new advertising technology, internal changes.

2008

January 31 - Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer makes $44.6 billion, $31-per-share cash-and-stock takeover offer to Yahoo board.

February 1 - Microsoft makes the offer public. Its shares fall 6.6 percent to $30.45; Yahoo shares rise 48 percent to $28.38.

February 11 - Yahoo rejects Microsoft offer as too low.

February 13 - MySpace owner News Corp (NWSa.N: Quote, Profile, Research, Stock Buzz) and Yahoo discuss tie-up, according to a source.