The 1982 Falklands War was not only one the most extraordinary military confrontations of recent years but also a turning-point in the politics of Britain and Argentina. Unusually for a major conflict it is now possible to follow its development from both sides. In this book two analysts from the belligerents have come together to produce an integrated and authoritative account of the war's origins and course. They unravel the complex series of events leading to the occupation of the Falkland Islands on 2 April 1982 by Argentine forces and then follow the conflict through to their surrender to the British on 14 June. The authors weave together the development of the military confrontations with the attempts by the Americans, Peruvians and the United Nations to help find a diplomatic solution. By drawing on all available sources, including hitherto unpublished material, Lawrence Freedman and Virginia Gamba-Stonehouse have provided a book that combines academic rigour with a keen sense of political drama.