Gibraltar: A Rock and a Hard Place
Since ownership passed from Spain to Britain in 1713, the Rock of Gibraltar has played an ambiguous – sometimes unwelcome role – in British history.
Recent events in Gibraltar have reminded us that this is the 300th anniversary of the Treaty of Utrecht, in which, among other things, Spain ceded the Rock to Britain forever. What is often forgotten is the ambiguous position Gibraltar held in British politics. Seven times in the first 15 years of British rule did ministers consider bartering it. But during that period Anglo-Spanish relations deteriorated, reviving hopes of an Elizabethan-style descent on the Spanish empire in the New World. It culminated in the War of Jenkins’ Ear in 1739. In these years of virulent anti-Spanish feeling and war fever, Gibraltar was loved by the British public because, whatever its military value, it was a thorn in the enemy’s side.
To continue reading this article you need to purchase a subscription, available from only £5.
Start my trial subscription now
If you have already purchased access, or are a print & archive subscriber, please ensure you are logged in.
Please email digital@historytoday.com if you have any problems.
