Sovereignty and Heraldry: The Case of the Falklands
Rodney Dennys looks at the heraldry of the Falkland Islands.
Heraldry, as we know it in Western Europe, began to develop about the time of the First Crusade (1096-1100), for the purposes of identifying the feudal leaders, the kings, princes, counts and greater barons, and the contingents of those abbots and bishops owing knight-service to the crown. Within the next three centuries the use of armorial ensigns had spread downwards to the lesser barons, knights, squires and yeomen.
Meanwhile the heraldry of the ruling families tended to be regarded, more and more, as also representing and identifying the countries they governed. This developed in modern times into the system of state heraldry, used by almost every country in the world, whether their culture and traditions sprang from Western Europe or not. Royal and state heraldry are not only the trappings but the demonstration of sovereignty. Rulers have also granted armorial emblems to territories over which they exercise dominion, in order to emphasise their sovereignty. The Falkland Islands are a good example of the latter, as a glance at their early history shows.
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.
