Battle of Talavera

French forces of Joseph Bonaparte and Marshal Victor attacked entrenched Anglo-Spanish positions around Talavera. The battle was bloody and fierce, with repeated assaults against heights held by Wellington's troops. After two days of fighting, the French failed to break British lines. However, the allies could not exploit their victory due to fatigue, losses, and the arrival of a new French army in their rear.

Wellington and Cuesta had the ambition of retaking Madrid. Talavera was to be a springboard toward the capital. However, disagreements between allies and Cuesta's slowness allowed the French to concentrate forces. Victor, reinforced by Sebastiani's troops and Joseph Bonaparte himself, chose to give battle.

Victor launched a series of frontal attacks on the heights of Cerro de Medellín held by the British. Disciplined defense, heavy infantry fire, and cavalry countercharges repulsed the French repeatedly. The Spanish protected the right wing but participated little in direct fighting. Artillery played an essential role in allied resistance.

Tactically, Wellington held the battlefield, but he was obliged to withdraw rapidly after the battle to avoid encirclement. This costly semi-victory nevertheless strengthened his reputation. The Spanish, little engaged, saw their contribution criticized. The French, though unsuccessful, retained strategic initiative.