Battle of Barrosa, 5 March 1811

Coloured aquatint by J C Stadler after William Heath, published by Thomas Tegg, 1 April 1818. Illustration for a narrative poem by Dr Syntax, 1818.

On 5 March 1811 the French under Marshal Victor attacked the Anglo-Portuguese-Spanish forces trying to lift the siege of Cádiz. Following a fierce battle on two fronts, the Allies succeeded in routing the attacking French forces. Despite their victory, they were unable to lift the siege so the battle was strategically indecisive.