War of the Quadruple Alliance
1719
Below are the engagements of this conflict that took place in 1719, with the forces engaged, commanders and consequences for France in each battle.
Era : Classical Era
- 1719 Siege of Fuenterrabía Victory
After the fall of San Sebastián, Berwick directs the assault against Fuenterrabía, another fortified town on the Basque frontier. The siege begins on 9 September with installation of artillery batteries facing the northern bastions. In less than ten days, a breach is opened and the French launch a general assault. The town falls on 18 September after fierce fighting.
- 1719 Battle of Francavilla Defeat
Within the Spanish attempt to reconquer Sicily, supported by France, combined Franco-Spanish troops confront Austrian forces at Francavilla. The battle is extremely bloody and ends in defeat for the Franco-Spanish coalition despite their resistance. French troops participate notably in defense of the left wing and suffer heavy losses.
- 1719 Capture of Pensacola Victory
Within the War of the Quadruple Alliance, France launches a colonial operation against the Spanish town of Pensacola, key to the Gulf of Mexico. The operation is led by Bienville from Louisiana. Thanks to a combined land and naval attack, the French quickly take the town. The Spanish attempt a counterattack in August but are repulsed again.
- 1719 Spanish Counterattack on Pensacola Defeat
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.
- 1719 Battle of San Sebastián Victory
Within a French offensive to force Spain to peace, Marshal de Berwick leads a rapid campaign in the Basque Country. The strategic port of San Sebastián is besieged in September. After several days of bombardment, a breach is opened in the walls and French troops storm the town. The Spanish garrison surrenders after violent fighting in the streets.