Bailen

19 July, 1808

Spanish Battle Tour Guides

The surrender of two small French forces at Bailen sent shockwaves throughout the French empire.

The 23,000 men, under the overall command of General Dupont, found themselves separated and trapped without water facing 30,000 Spaniards.

The French made five sorties to break out on 19 May, but without success and, after two days of talks, agreed to throw down their arms.

General Dupont was jailed on his return to France, but was restored to the military by the Bourbons.