Gibraltar and the Canary Islands: Historical Context and Sovereignty Issues

Introduction

The question of why Spain asks for Gibraltar while refusing to give the Canary Islands to Morocco is complex and deeply rooted in historical context. This article aims to clarify the historical background and the current sovereignty issues, providing a comprehensive understanding of the situation.

Historical Context of Gibraltar

Gibraltar: A Part of Hispania

Gibraltar, formerly known as Govclare by the Romans, Rock of Calpe by the Visigoths, and Gebel al Tarik or Mount of Tarik by Arabs, has been a strategic naval base and a point of contention for centuries. Historically, Gibraltar was a part of Hispania long before the Muslim invasion and the chieftain Tariq ibn Ziyad crossed the Strait of Gibraltar in 711 AD. The name Gibraltar itself is a transliteration of the Arabic Gebel al Tarik, which translates to Mount of Tarik.

During the War of the Spanish Succession (1701-1714), Gibraltar was seized by British forces in 1704 under the Treaty of Utrecht. The inhabitants were expelled, and since then, Gibraltar has been under British control. Thus, Gibraltar is not a spoil of war from Morocco, but a result of the Treaty of Utrecht.

Sovereignty of the Canary Islands

The Canaries and Their History

The Canary Islands: Not Part of Morocco

The Canary Islands have never historically belonged to Morocco. In fact, the number of Muslims on the islands during Spanish settlement was virtually non-existent. When the Spanish arrived in the late 15th century, they encountered the indigenous Guanche people, whom they did not find to be Muslim. This is evidenced by the numerous Catholic churches and the absence of mosques.

The establishment of Spanish settlers in the Canary Islands predates the formation of the Kingdom of Morocco in the 17th century. Therefore, the historical claim of Morocco to the Canaries is both outdated and invalid. Additionally, the DNA studies conducted in the Canary Islands show that the Canary Islanders have significant North African DNA, which traces back to the Guanche people, who were not Muslims.

Conclusion

The Current Relevance

The historical context of Gibraltar and the Canary Islands is crucial in understanding the current sovereignty issues. Gibraltar's history as a strategic naval base and its transformation into a British possession through treaties, as well as the lack of any historical or cultural connection between Morocco and the Canaries, provide a solid foundation for the current status quo.

While Spain may seek to maintain sovereignty over Gibraltar, the current demographic and historical evidence supports the fact that the Canary Islands are not part of Morocco. Any discussion on these sovereignty issues should be based on a deep understanding of their historical context.