The Early History of the Falkland Islands

Historical research and evidence clearly show that the Falkland Islands were not uninhabited when Europeans first arrived in the 18th century. Various nationalities, including Spanish and French, had visited the islands and set up temporary settlements. However, the myth that no one was living there remains a central argument in the sovereignty dispute between Argentina and the United Kingdom. This analysis delves into the historical context, highlighting the evidence of human presence on the islands before the British took formal possession in 1833.

Evidence of Pre-Occupation

France and Britain were the first Western countries to establish bases on the Falkland Islands, but their visits were merely temporary. The French landed in 1764 and established a small base, which was abandoned by 1766. Similarly, the British landed on 1765 and set up a base, which was later abandoned in 1774. The idea that these islands were uninhabited contradicts historical records. Notably, Argentina only became an independent nation in 1816, which further complicates the claims about the sovereignty of the islands.

The French Settlement and Its Purpose

The French settlement on East Falkland in 1764 was not a permanent one. The French settlers landed there specifically to challenge the British claim. As historian Roberto C. Laver noted, the reason for the French presence was to create a basis to argue that the islands were not British. This strategic move did not succeed, as the French abandoned the settlement shortly after.

The British Claim and Settlement

The British claimed the Falkland Islands formally in 1690 and first landed there in 1594. Despite this, the island remained relatively uninhabited until 1765 when the British established a base. The island's first permanent settlement was established in 1766, kick-started by Argentinian settlers from the 1760s. By 1766, Port Louis (now known as Puerto Soledad or Puerto Luis) had over 130 settlers, proving that the French base was part of a broader settlement effort by multiple nations.

The Contradictions in Argentine Claims

Argentina claims that before the British took possession in 1833, there were no inhabitants on the islands. However, the Argentine historian Lucas Villar points out that the British claim of uninhabited land contradicts historical records. The island was established by multiple nations, with a well-documented Spanish and French presence. The rebellion led by gaucho Antonio Rivero in 1833, during which the Argentine flag was raised, further illustrates the historical presence of non-British settlers on the islands.

Evidence of a Permanent Settlement

Emilio Vernet's settlement in 1828 provides irrefutable evidence of pre-1833 habitation. The built-up town of Puerto Luis included fortified buildings, a dock, salt mines, path development, and even social activities such as Sunday dances. The documentation by Emilio Vernet's brother, Santiago, vividly describes the community's establishment and growth, proving that by 1833, a permanent settlement existed on the islands.

Conclusion

The Falkland Islands were not uninhabited before Europeans arrived. The presence of French and Spanish settlements, as well as the later permanent settlement by Argentine settlers, argues strongly against the notion of uninhabited lands. The British claim in 1833 overpowered the previous inhabitants, but historical records suggest that the islands had a complex human history long before the arrival of the British.

Key Takeaways:

Pre-1833, the Falkland Islands had established French and Spanish settlements. The permanent settlement of Puerto Luis, documented by Emilio Vernet, was established in the 1820s. Historical records and evidence challenge claims of uninhabited territories before European arrival. The dispute between Argentina and the UK over Falkland sovereignty is based on complex historical and legal claims.