In 1980, Gibraltar was a British Overseas Territory located at the southern tip of the Iberian Peninsula. The territory, which is only 6.8 square kilometres, is strategically located at the entrance to the Mediterranean Sea. The population of Gibraltar in 1980 was around 25,000 people, with the majority of residents being of British and Genoese descent.
Gibraltar’s economy in 1980 was primarily based on tourism, with many visitors coming to see the famous Rock of Gibraltar and the territory’s historic fortifications and military heritage. The port of Gibraltar was also an important economic driver, as it was a major refueling stop for ships passing through the Mediterranean. The British military also had a significant presence in Gibraltar, with two military bases located on the Rock and a naval dockyard in the town.
The political situation in Gibraltar in 1980 was complex, as there had been a long-standing dispute between the UK and Spain over the territory’s sovereignty. Spain had long claimed sovereignty over Gibraltar and had closed its border with the territory in 1969, which had a significant economic impact on Gibraltar.
Despite the political and economic challenges, the people of Gibraltar were proud of their unique heritage and culture. The territory had its own distinct legal system, currency, and cultural traditions, and residents were fiercely loyal to the British Crown.
In 1980, Spanish Photographer Manel Armengol was in Gibraltar and documented street scenes and everyday life in his photographs.
