The Historical Context of Argentina’s Claim on the Falkland Islands

The Falkland Islands, also known as Malvinas, have been a subject of geopolitical tension between the United Kingdom and Argentina for decades. The claim by Argentina began in 1829, but the historical context and the nature of Argentina’s ownership have been disputed. Here, we explore the historical timeline and the significant events that shaped Argentina’s claim.

Early History and British Presence

The Falkland Islands have a rich historical background, with the British presence predating the formation of Argentina itself. The islands were discovered in 1592 by the English explorer John Davis, but the first settlement was established by the British in 1765 on East Falkland. Soon after, the French established a settlement on South Georgia, and Spain took control in 1770. The British left in 1774, but their presence left a significant legacy.

Argentina’s First Claim in 1829

Argentina’s claim on the Falkland Islands began on June 10, 1829, when a bankrupt German businessman, Luis Vernet, attempted to sell the islands to the British in exchange for debts he owed them. However, Vernet had originally leased the islands from the Argentine government. The British promptly protested, and Argentina’s attempt to claim ownership was largely superficial. Vernet had to leave the islands in 1831, and they were abandoned in 1833.

British and Argentine Control (1833-1982)

The islands remained uninhabited for nearly five decades, until 1833 when Argentina briefly attempted to assert its claim again. The Argentine government sent a small military detachment to take control, but the British protested and demanded their withdrawal. The Argentine forces evacuated the islands in January 1833, ceding control back to the British. This marks the first time Argentina held a tenuous control over the islands, but it was only a 2-month period.

The 1982 Conflict

The 1982 war was a turning point in the Falkland Islands’ history. Argentina resurrected its claim on April 2, 1982, when it invaded the islands. This conflict lasted for 74 days, ending on June 14, 1982, with the British forces reestablishing control over the Falkland Islands. Although Argentina had brief control, the duration was minimal, and the war resulted in significant losses for both sides.

Current Status

As of today, the Falkland Islands, or Malvinas, remain under British sovereignty. The islands have been under British control for 429 years, from 1594 to the present. Argentina’s claim, while persistent, has been met with strong opposition from the British government and its inhabitants. Argentina’s historical claim to the Falkland Islands is based on a period of strong but brief control (3 and a half years) over the last 194 years.

Conclusion

The claim on the Falkland Islands by Argentina is often discussed, but the facts remain clear. The islands were under British control far longer than Argentina ever held them. Any argument regarding sovereignty must take into account the historical timeline and the nature of these historic claims. The Falkland Islands remain under British control, and Argentina’s claim remains a contentious issue, but the historical facts firmly place the islands within the British territory.