Background: Argentina is in deep economic trouble; Throughout 1981, inflation sky-rockets to over 600%, GDP is down 11.4%, manufacturing output is down 22.9%, and real wages by 19.2% [Rock: p 375-378]. In addition, Mass disappearances of people in the hands of the military juntas causes significant unrest.

The third dictatorship president since the 1976 coup, General Leopoldo Galtieri launches a military invasion of the islands, code named Operación Rosario. The invasion is planned by the commander of the Navy Admiral Jorge Anaya to be launched on one of the most important national celebrations (The revolution anniversary on May 25th or Independence day on July 9th). Its main purpose is to divert public attention from the distressing internal problems and restore the long lost popularity and prestige of the dictatorship.

Which leads to April 2nd, The Argentine Navy with thousands of troops lands on the Falklands. A small detachment of Royal Marines on the islands put up a brave but futile resistance before Governor Rex Hunt ordered them to lay down their arms. The marine forces are flown to Montevideo along with the British governor.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/hi/english/static/in_depth/uk/2002/falklands/

http://www.naval-history.net/NAVAL1982FALKLANDS.htm

http://www.rafmarham.co.uk/history/falklands.htm