Peninsular War

Peninsular war collage

Peninsular War (1807–1814) was a pivotal conflict in the Napoleonic Wars, involving Napoleon's France and a changing alliance of Britain, Spain, and Portugal. It is named after the Iberian Peninsula, where it took place. This war is notable for the emergence of guerrilla warfare, significantly affecting French troops and contributing to the eventual defeat of Napoleon.

Background

The Peninsular War began when France and Spain invaded Portugal in 1807 for failing to comply with the Continental System, Napoleon's blockade against Britain. In 1808, Napoleon turned on Spain, his ally, deposing the Spanish king and placing his brother, Joseph Bonaparte, on the throne. This act sparked widespread resistance across Spain, leading to a prolonged and brutal conflict.

Major Battles and Campaigns

The war featured several key battles and campaigns, including the Siege of Zaragoza, the Battle of Bailén, and the Battle of Vitoria. British forces, under the command of Sir Arthur Wellesley, who would later become the Duke of Wellington, played a crucial role in the conflict, supporting Spanish and Portuguese forces against the French.

Guerrilla Warfare

One of the defining aspects of the Peninsular War was the extensive use of guerrilla tactics by Spanish and Portuguese forces. These irregular forces harassed and undermined the French army, significantly contributing to the allied victory. The term "guerrilla" itself, meaning "little war" in Spanish, became widely used during this period.

Impact

The Peninsular War drained French resources, diverted Napoleon's attention from other fronts, and contributed to his eventual downfall in 1814. It also fostered a sense of national identity in Spain and Portugal and led to significant social and political changes, paving the way for liberal reforms in Spain.

Aftermath

The war ended with the Treaty of Paris in 1814, which saw the restoration of the Bourbon monarchy in Spain. However, the conflict had lasting impacts on the region, including economic devastation and a significant loss of life. It also marked the beginning of the decline of French dominance in Europe.

In Popular Culture

The Peninsular War has been depicted in various works of literature and art, most notably in the Sharpe series by Bernard Cornwell, which follows the adventures of a British soldier during the conflict.