guerra de malvinas History Timeline and Biographies

British Occupation of the Falkland Islands

In 1833, British forces expelled the Argentine garrison from the Falkland Islands, marking the beginning of a long-standing territorial dispute that would eventually lead to the guerra de malvinas. Argentina would continue to claim sovereignty over the islands, leading to tensions over the years.

UN Resolution on the Falkland Islands

The United Nations General Assembly passed Resolution 2065, calling for negotiations between Argentina and the UK regarding the sovereignty of the Falkland Islands. This resolution highlighted the international community's recognition of the dispute and set the stage for future conflicts, including the guerra de malvinas.

Increased Tensions and Military Preparations

In the year leading up to the guerra de malvinas, tensions escalated as Argentina increased its military presence in the region. The Argentine government, under a military junta, sought to assert its claim over the islands, preparing for potential action against British interests.

Invasion of the Falkland Islands

On April 2, 1982, Argentine forces invaded the Falkland Islands, initiating the guerra de malvinas. The invasion was met with international condemnation, and the UK quickly began preparations to respond militarily to reclaim the islands.

UK Response and Task Force Deployment

In response to the invasion, the UK government dispatched a naval task force to the South Atlantic, consisting of ships and aircraft aimed at retaking the Falkland Islands. This marked the beginning of a significant military engagement in the guerra de malvinas.

British Naval Blockade Established

The UK established a naval blockade around the Falkland Islands to prevent further Argentine reinforcements and supplies from reaching the islands. This strategic move was crucial in the progression of the guerra de malvinas.

The Sinkings of the ARA General Belgrano

On May 1, 1982, the British submarine HMS Conqueror sank the Argentine cruiser ARA General Belgrano, resulting in the loss of over 300 Argentine lives. This event significantly shifted the dynamics of the guerra de malvinas, as it marked the first major naval engagement of the conflict.

British forces landed at San Carlos on May 21, 1982, marking the beginning of the ground phase of the guerra de malvinas. This operation was critical for establishing a foothold on the islands and initiating combat operations against Argentine forces.

On June 14, 1982, Argentine forces in the Falkland Islands surrendered to British troops, effectively ending the guerra de malvinas. The conflict resulted in the deaths of 649 Argentine and 255 British military personnel, leaving a profound impact on both nations.

Following the surrender, the Falkland Islands were returned to British control, and a new government was established. The aftermath of the guerra de malvinas led to significant political changes in Argentina and a reassessment of military policies in both nations.

In 1985, Argentina established a truth commission to investigate the human rights abuses that occurred during the military junta, including during the guerra de malvinas. This was part of a broader effort to address the legacy of the conflict and its impact on Argentine society.

In 1994, Argentina began to establish memorials for the fallen soldiers of the guerra de malvinas, reflecting the ongoing national mourning and the desire to honor those who lost their lives during the conflict. These memorials serve as a reminder of the war's impact on Argentine identity.

Diplomatic tensions between Argentina and the UK persisted into the early 21st century, with both nations continuing to assert their claims over the Falkland Islands. The legacy of the guerra de malvinas remains a contentious issue in bilateral relations.

In 2020, both Argentina and the UK commemorated the 38th anniversary of the guerra de malvinas, reflecting on the conflict's legacy and the ongoing disputes surrounding the islands. Events were held to honor the soldiers and discuss the impact of the war on both nations.

In 2022, discussions surrounding the sovereignty of the Falkland Islands continued, with Argentina asserting its claims at international forums. The legacy of the guerra de malvinas remains a significant aspect of Argentina's foreign policy and its relationship with the UK.