Spanish Counterattack on Pensacola
Summary
A few months after its capture by the French, the town of Pensacola is targeted by a punitive Spanish expedition from Havana. Overwhelmed by naval superiority and the number of assailants, the French offer only brief resistance before capitulating. The Spanish retake the town without a pitched battle, capturing the French garrison.
Historical context
Spain intends to re-establish a foothold in the Gulf of Mexico and avenge the humiliation suffered in spring. The Spanish expedition shows a will for colonial reassertion within the ongoing world war.
Tactics
Rapid naval blockade of the bay. Bombardment of fortifications by Spanish ships, then infantry landing on the beaches. Capitulation without prolonged engagement.
Consequences
The French temporarily lose control of Pensacola. However, oscillations in the colonial war will see the town taken once more shortly afterward, before being returned to the Spanish at the conclusion of the Treaty of The Hague (1720).