Battle of Tudela

The Battle of Tudela opposed a poorly coordinated Spanish army to a French force superior in organization. Lannes attacked the Spanish center and right, breaking their line, while Moncey pressed on the left wing. The Spanish army was dislocated and in flight before nightfall.

After Napoleon's entry into Spain, marshals were sent in all directions to disperse enemy forces. Castaños and Palafox, attempting to form a defensive line on the Ebro, failed to coordinate effectively. Napoleon entrusted Lannes with the mission of breaking this line.

Lannes attacked rapidly before the Spanish could anchor solidly. Ney threatened the left flank while Moncey fixed the right wing. Poorly linked Spanish forces could not react effectively. Cavalry exploitation of the breach transformed tactical victory into rout.

The French victory at Tudela permitted the capture of Zaragoza shortly afterward (despite a long siege) and cleared the southeastern flank of Madrid. The Spanish lost two organized armies, and national morale collapsed.