The Cod Wars

The Cod Wars were a series of disputes between the United Kingdom and Iceland during the 1950s-1970s over fishing rights in the North Atlantic. Iceland expanded its exclusive fishing zone, initially to 4 nautical miles, then progressively to 12, 50, and eventually 200 miles, to protect its fishing industry. Britain and other countries challenged these extensions, often resulting in confrontations at sea, including the use of rams and ships blocking each other. These conflicts highlighted tensions over fishing resource sovereignty and led to diplomatic negotiations, ultimately resulting in agreements that defined Iceland’s fishing boundaries, benefiting Iceland's economic interests.