The Treaties of Utrecht, 1713.
By editor • Jun 9th, 2008 • Category: History
Gibraltar became a British Colony, in perpetuity, under the Treaties of Utrecht in 1713.
The Rock has suffered several attempts to be retaken by Spain, most notably the Great Siege of 1779 to 1783, but has remained under British control at all times since the treaties.
Part of the agreement was that there would be no overland trade between Spain and Gibraltar unless the British were unable to supply it by sea. There seems to be no similar embargo on sea trade between Spain and Gibraltar.
It was also stated that no Jews or Moors would be allowed to reside in, or own houses in, the town of Gibraltar. This particular clause was soon ignored and Gibraltar has had communities of Jews and Muslims almost from the date of the treaties.
Should Britain ever decide that she no longer requires Gibraltar, she must first offer it back to Spain.
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