Falklands War

Falklands War

The Falklands War was a ten-week undeclared war between Argentina and the United Kingdom in 1982 over two British dependent territories in the South Atlantic: the Falkland Islands and its territorial dependency, South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands. The conflict began on 2 April, when Argentina invaded and occupied the Falkland Islands, and ended on 14 June with the Argentine surrender.

Background

The origins of the Falklands War can be traced back to a long-standing dispute between Argentina and the United Kingdom over the sovereignty of the Falkland Islands. Argentina has claimed the islands since the early 19th century, citing proximity and historical ties, while the UK has maintained control since 1833.

Invasion and Conflict

On 2 April 1982, Argentine forces launched an invasion of the Falkland Islands, quickly overcoming the small British garrison. The Argentine government, led by Leopoldo Galtieri, sought to assert its claim over the islands and bolster national pride.

In response, the British government, led by Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher, assembled a naval task force to retake the islands. The British forces included aircraft carriers, destroyers, and submarines, as well as ground troops.

Major Battles

Key battles during the conflict included the Battle of Goose Green, the Battle of Mount Tumbledown, and the Battle of San Carlos. British forces faced challenging conditions, including harsh weather and difficult terrain, but ultimately succeeded in recapturing the islands.

Outcome

The war ended with the Argentine surrender on 14 June 1982. The conflict resulted in the deaths of 649 Argentine military personnel, 255 British military personnel, and three Falkland Islanders. The victory had significant political implications in both countries, bolstering Thatcher's government in the UK and leading to the fall of the military junta in Argentina.

Aftermath

Following the war, the UK increased its military presence in the Falklands and invested in the islands' infrastructure. The conflict also led to a reevaluation of British defense policy and military capabilities.

Legacy

The Falklands War remains a sensitive topic in Argentina, where the islands are referred to as the "Islas Malvinas." The sovereignty dispute continues to affect diplomatic relations between the two countries.

See also

• History of the Falkland Islands
• Military history of Argentina
• Military history of the United Kingdom

External links

• Falkland Islands War - Britannica
• The National Archives - Falklands War