We often use the simple present when we write time lines or biographical outlines - even if all the events take place in the past!
Example:
1911 - Pete Wilson is born in Seattle, Washington.
1918 - Pete begins to play the saxophone
1927 - Pete is discovered by Fat Man Wallace
1928 - Fat Man Wallace arranges Pete's first concert with Big Fanny and the Boys in New York
1936 - Pete goes to Paris
Etc.