Figure 1.-- One of the most notable geographic features is Gibraltar. It is a huge rock set in one of the most critical points imaginable. This peninsular at the southern tip of Spain has played an enormous role in history. A large rock by itself is not particularly important. Ayers Rock set in the middle of Australia has not significantly ffected history. Gibraltar was, however, set at one of the most strategic points of the world, the entrance to the Mediterranean. Gibraltar was a massive natural fortress which was obvious even in pre-history. Here we see a Spanish fisher boy ner Gibraltar sometime un the 1880s..

One of the most notable geographic features is Gibraltar. It is a huge rock set in one of the most critical points imaginable. This peninsular at the southern tip of Spain has played an enormous role in history. A large rock by itself is not particularly important. Ayers Rock set in the middle of Australia has not significantly ffected history. Gibraltar was, however, set at one of the most strategic points of the world, the entrance to the Mediterranean. Gibraltar was a massive natural fortress which was obvious even in pre-history. Gibrltar is believes to have been the last known holdout of the Neanderthals. It thus with the growth of sea power assumed huge importance. It was taylor made for the British Royal Navy which from its creation faced Spain as a major emeny. An Anglo-Dutch force seized Gibraltar from Spain during the War of the Spanish Succession (1704). Spain was forced to cede Gibraltar to Britain 'in perpetuity' under the Treaty of Utrecht (1713). It became an important base for the Royal Navy, especially during the Napoleonic Wars. The strategic value only increased with the opening of the Suez Canal (1869). Gibralyar played an important role in World War II.

Created: 4:50 AM 12/6/2012
Last updated: 4:50 AM 12/6/2012