Falkland Islands War (1982)

Context:

The Falkland Islands War, fought between Argentina and Great Britain from April 2 to June 14, 1982, was a significant conflict over the sovereignty of the Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas) and associated territories in the South Atlantic.

1. Background of Dispute: Argentina claimed the Falklands since the 19th century, but Britain seized control in 1833, rejecting Argentina’s claims, leading to a long-standing sovereignty dispute.
2. Trigger Event: On March 19, 1982, Argentine salvage workers raised their flag on South Georgia, escalating tensions; Argentina invaded the Falklands on April 2, capturing Stanley with over 10,000 troops.
3. British Response: Under PM Margaret Thatcher, Britain declared a 200-mile war zone around the islands and dispatched a naval task force (HMS Hermes, HMS Invincible, and troop carriers like Queen Elizabeth 2) to retake the territory.
4. Key Military Actions:
5. • April 25: Britain retook South Georgia.
   • May 2: British submarine sank Argentine cruiser General Belgrano, killing over 300, a controversial act outside the war zone.
   • May 4: Argentine forces sank HMS Sheffield with an Exocet missile.
   • May 21: British troops landed at Port San Carlos, advancing to capture Darwin and Goose Green.
   • June 14: Argentine commander Mario Menéndez surrendered at Stanley after British forces blockaded the capital.

1. Casualties: Argentina lost ~650 lives (mostly conscripts); Britain lost 255 personnel; total casualties exceeded 900.
2. Geopolitical Support:
3. • Most European nations backed Britain; Latin American countries (except Chile) supported Argentina.
   • The US provided Britain with missiles, fuel, and intelligence, despite initial neutrality efforts.
3. Strategic Errors: Argentina miscalculated US neutrality and kept elite troops on the mainland due to a perceived Chilean threat, weakening their Falklands defense.
4. Outcome and Impact:
5. • Britain regained control, boosting Thatcher’s domestic popularity and securing her 1983 election victory.
   • Argentina’s military junta was discredited, leading to civilian rule in 1983.
5. Post-War: Sovereignty remains unresolved; a 2013 referendum showed 99.8% of Falkland Islanders favoured British rule, while Argentina persists with its claim.