Falklands history: The beginning

1592

The Islands are first sighted by John Davis, an English navigator aboard the ship 'Desire'.

1594

Sir Richard Hawkins confirmed Davis' discovery when he sailed along the northern shores of the Islands and identified various geographical features.

1690

First recorded landing on the Islands by Captain Strong of the ship 'Welfare' in the sound separating the two main Islands. He names this 'Falkland Sound' after Viscount Falkland, Treasurer of the Navy.

1764

The first settlement founded on the Islands. Established by the Frenchman Antoine Louis de Bougainville in Berkeley Sound, East Falkland. It was named Port St. Louis after the French King.

1765

British Naval Squadron under Captain John Byron survey the Islands and hoist the Union Jack over Saunders Island, West Falkland. Named Port Egmont after the Earl of Egmont, First Lord of the Admiralty.

1766

British settlement established at Port Egmont under Captain John McBride, who named the whole archipelago Falkland Islands.

1767

Spain objects to the French settlement at Port St. Louis. Bougainville forced to sell to the Spanish. Spanish garrison replaced French settlers. Port Louis renamed Puerto de la Soledad.