Siege of Alexandria
Egyptian Campaign (War of the Second Coalition) · Alexandria, Egypt
Summary
The siege of Alexandria ended with the capitulation of French forces to the British, ending the French presence in Egypt. From 17 August to 2 September 1801, Belliard surrendered after Cairo's capitulation on 27 June; it was the last action of the Egyptian campaign.
Historical context
After the surrender of Cairo, French forces fell back on Alexandria, attempting a last stand against British forces seeking to regain strategic control of the port city.
Tactics
French defense relied on city fortifications and sorties, but numerical superiority and the British naval blockade tipped the balance. After the British victory at Canope (21 March 1801) and Abercromby's death, Hely-Hutchinson continued the siege until surrender on 2 September.
Consequences
The capitulation of Alexandria marked the end of the Egyptian campaign and the definitive withdrawal of French troops from the Middle East. Under surrender terms, the French kept personal arms and baggage and were sent home aboard British ships after handing over ships and artillery.