Falklands 1982

Falklands 1982

Chronicle of the South Atlantic conflict

(David Díaz Cabo)

On this occasion, the publishing house HRM Ediciones offers us a book that is practically unique in its field: «Malvinas 1982. Chronicle of the South Atlantic conflict», written by David Díaz Cabo. As its title says, the work is exactly that, a day-by-day and almost hour-by-hour chronicle, which records each and every one of the actions that took place in this short but bloody war or, at least, all the known weapons incidents.

The strong point of the book lies, without a doubt, in its objectivity. Let no one expect literature, nor embellishments, nor passionate narratives of the actions of one or another, because at no time does the author allow himself to be carried along those paths. This may be a handicap for depending on the audience and more so in these times when being neutral is frowned upon, but as I say, no one will be able to blame David Díaz Cabo for having opted for either side.

Another important point in favor is found in the annexes and illustrations. Those that are in black and white may not have the most appropriate resolution, but they are still useful. The ones that are in color help us to locate the weapons, vehicles and air systems of the contenders, which is always appreciated. Furthermore, among the final annexes there is some quite important information or clarification on the effectiveness of torpedoes, anti-aircraft systems, pilots' anti-exposure suits, uniforms, night vision means, etc. It is important, as it serves to demystify many topics and to put an end to some of the completely false ideas that are continually repeated in Internet forums, without going any further.

As a weak point, to say the least, it is difficult to find fault with a work so honored from a historiographical point of view, perhaps the format chosen for the chronicle, which helps little with the reading, but without a doubt it is a choice of the author and somewhat totally premeditated. In this sense, the layout of the text, which is ordered by days and hours, helps to «Malvinas 1982. Chronicle of the South Atlantic conflict» becomes a reference and essential support for anyone who intends to delve deeper into this exciting topic and who, once reading it, will undoubtedly consult it repeatedly.

In short, a good book about a conflict that is still fresh in the memories of many. A book that you can -and should- acquire, by clicking on the following link.