Falkland Islands
Off the coast of Patagonia lies the windswept island chain of the Falklands (Islas Malvinas).
Comprising the larger islands of East and West Falkland, and 776 smaller islands - only fifteen of which are inhabited - the Falklands is one of the least densely populated places on Earth. The islands are believed to have been uninhabited when British Captain John Strong sailed between the two main islands, naming the strait between them 'Falkland Sound', christening the islands with the name they are known by today. With only around 3,000 residents, the Falkland Islands are one of the most remote and least populous territories on Earth.
Area of Falkland Islands
12.173 km²
Population of Falkland Islands
3,470
Facts about Falkland Islands
- Antarctica
- Falkland Islands
Population
As of 2024 there are 3,470 people currently living on the islands. 2,349 of the people who live on the islands are residents of the capital, Stanley. Stanely is located on east Falkland, the capital was founded in 1843. A significant portion of the population is employed in the public sector, agriculture, fishing, and increasingly, tourism. The population density is low, with many of the islands’ inhabitants living on large farms or in rural settlements known as "Camp", a term used locally to describe the countryside outside of Stanley.
Culture
The culture of the Falkland Islands is shaped by its British heritage and the islands’ isolation. English is the official language, and British customs like Guy Fawkes Night and the Queen’s Birthday are celebrated. However, the Falklands have developed their own unique identity, with a strong sense of community among "Islanders" due to the small population and geographic isolation. Sheep farming has historically played a central role in island life, with the annual Sheep Show highlighting its importance. In recent years, the economy has diversified with fishing and tourism, particularly focused on wildlife and history.
History
The Falkland Islands were likely uninhabited when European sailors first sighted them in the 16th century, though various Spanish, French, Portuguese, and English ships charted the area over time. In the 18th century, Spain, France, and Britain established bases, but the islands' sovereignty remained ambiguous. Britain took control in 1833, rejecting Argentina's claim. The islands grew economically, with settlers establishing ranches, and Port Stanley became the capital.
In 1982, Argentina invaded the Falklands, sparking a 74-day war in which Britain regained control, with 694 Argentine and 255 British casualties. Although diplomatic relations were restored in 1990, the sovereignty dispute remains unresolved.
Nature and Wildlife
The Falkland Islands consist of 778 islands covering 12,000 km², about a quarter the size of Ireland. Most residents live in Stanley, with most islands remaining uninhabited. The rugged, hilly terrain is shaped by sandstone, and geologically, the islands share more with South Africa, having separated from Africa 130 million years ago.
There are no native terrestrial mammals, and the land is home to geese and smaller birds. However, the surrounding nutrient-rich waters support a rich marine ecosystem. Fourteen species of marine mammals, including sea lions, orcas, and whales, are common, while the islands host five species of penguins and 80% of the world's Black-Browed Albatross.