Second Battle of Puebla

After the failure of 1862, the French launched a new campaign against Puebla, this time with a far superior and better-prepared force commanded by General Forey. The siege lasted two months and involved violent urban combat, especially around Mexican defensive redoubts and bastions. After several unsuccessful assaults, the French broke enemy lines and entered the city, forcing the Mexican surrender on 17 May 1863.

Napoleon III sought to impose an imperial regime in Mexico under Maximilian of Austria. Control of Puebla was strategic: the country's second city and the gateway to Mexico City. The expedition was reinforced by new French contingents and Mexican conservative allies. Forey began a methodical campaign, first securing stable supply before investing the city.

The French established a complete blockade and cut Mexican communications. French artillery systematically pounded the bastions. Forey chose targeted sector attacks: each redoubt was assaulted at night with coordination between line infantry, sappers, and artillery. Street fighting was fierce, especially in the San Javier district. French logistical superiority and troop discipline ensured progress despite heavy losses. The enemy was exhausted by famine and incessant bombardment.

The fall of Puebla opened the road to Mexico City, which would fall shortly afterward without serious resistance. It marked the turning point of the Mexican campaign: Emperor Maximilian was installed soon after with French military support. However, this victory masked the difficulties of maintaining durable control over the country, which would prove costly and fragile. French military prestige was nevertheless strengthened in the short term.