Whose Turf?

Denouncing Argentina's invasion of the Falklands last week, British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher observed that "if actions like this were allowed to stand, there would be many territories the world over where people would fear the invader." Indeed, the globe is littered with hundreds of conflicting territorial claims. Many of these controversies, such as the Austrian claim to the Italian-held South Tyrol, lie happily dormant. Others are the source of sharp protests, active negotiations and open conflict. The outcome in the Falklands will thus be closely watched by those tempted to settle such questions by force.

A sampler of territorial disputes:

Gibraltar. Seized...

Want the full story?

Subscribe Now

Subscribe
Subscribe

Learn more about the benefits of being a TIME subscriber

If you are already a subscriber sign up — registration is free!