Battle of Vitoria

Wellington launched a coordinated attack on four axes against French positions at Vitoria. Outflanked on their flanks and center, the French retreated in disorder. The rout was worsened by the loss of Joseph Bonaparte's treasury and baggage.

After several reverses in Spain, the French withdrew. Wellington took advantage of Jourdan's indecision and weak French defenses to attack in a broad pincer maneuver. Joseph Bonaparte, Napoleon's brother, was forced to flee.

Wellington divided his forces into four columns to attack French flanks and center simultaneously. Fighting was violent but well coordinated on the allied side. The French, poorly positioned, were overwhelmed despite local resistance attempts.

This defeat marked the end of French control over northern Spain. The loss of Vitoria accelerated the general withdrawal of imperial troops toward the French border. Imperial prestige in Spain collapsed.