original_query: What is the history of South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands?
query: What is the history of South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands?
answer: The history of South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands begins with their discovery by European explorers.  Initially uninhabited due to a harsh climate, the islands were primarily used for sealing and whaling, with periods of scientific research interspersed.  Significant whaling activity occurred in the 20th century, establishing the islands as a major whaling center.  There have also been sovereignty disputes with Argentina, culminating in the Falklands War.  More recently, the islands have become a tourist destination and have established a large marine protected area.