The Falklands Flashcards
Why was there an Anglo-Argentine dispute?
-Falklands under Br rule since 1833
-small population + 80% supported Br rule but little econ strategic value to Br
How did this lead to a dispute?
-Falklands 400 miles off coat of Argentina
-Argentina claims over ‘las Malvinas’ + nationalist junta gov under Gen. Galtrieri invasion April 2 1982
Why did Argentina invade?
-Br foreign sec Carrington + defence sec Nott approved withdrawal of HMS Endurance
-left south Atlantic without Br naval presence which Gailtrieri took as hint Br willing let Falklands go
What did Br do in respond to the invasion?
-dilemma - winning back islands difficult + dangerous
-gov already showed willingness negotiate over islands future
What was thatchers response?
-immediate announcement naval task force sent to remove Argentinian forces to assert right of Falklands to self-determination
What was the impact of thatchers response?
-sent previously unpopular cons gov soaring in opinion polls
-but a risky gamble could’ve ended in disaster like suez
What did Br do with thatchers response?
-Br air strikes
-200 mile exclusion zone enforced
When did the changes of a peace settlement disappear?
-when Br sub sank Argentine battleship General Belgrano causing heavy loss of life
What was the Br reaction to this?
-many applauded the action + the sun headliner ‘GOTCHA!’
-but anti-war protestors claimed sinking unnecessary + designed to finish off chances of peaceful outcome
Why did br need us support ?
-necessary get assurances from US as impossible faith battle 8000 miles from br without use of US air bases
How did the US respond?
-Reagan gave speech stating not wanting get physically involved
-US allowed br use bases but no support with troops or resources
What was the impact of this?
-strengthened special relationship
-personal ties with thatcher + Reagan strengthened
What was the outcome?
-didn’t take long for victory
-21 may Br troops landed san Carlos water which made victory certain + Argentine forces surrendered 14 June when br reclaimed port Stanley
How did the war impact thatcher?
-celebrated as war leader + likened to Churchill as war hero
-military victory overseas was popular - the Falklands factor
-foot + Kinnock from lab dipped in popularity
-personal ratings for thatcher increased leading to 42.4% vote for cons 1983 elec (397 seats)
Why was thatcher popular in terms of her dealings with the war?
-was decisive + stood firm
-credited with quick action + bypassed cab committee to set up more efficient ear cab with self appointed advisors
