Battle of Bussaco
Serra do Buçaco, Portugal
What happened
A British and Portuguese army under Viscount Wellington fought the French army of Marshal André Masséna. In the Peninsular War, Masséna's army was marching on Lisbon. Wellington placed his troops along a ridge, mostly on the far slope out of sight, and banned cooking fires so the French could not judge his strength. The French attacked the ridge several times and were driven back each time.
Why it matters
Why it matters: It delayed the French advance while the secret Lines of Torres Vedras were finished. It was also the first major battle in which the rebuilt Portuguese army played a big part, boosting its morale.
What came next
Wellington withdrew behind the Lines of Torres Vedras, which Masséna found too strong. Short of food, the French retreated into Spain in early 1811.
Did you know?
The Lines of Torres Vedras, 152 forts with 648 cannon, were built in such secrecy that the French did not know they existed.
Timeline
- 3 November 1809Work begins on the Lines of Torres Vedras.
- 27 September 1810Wellington wins at Bussaco.
- 11 October 1810Masséna reaches the Lines.
- March 1811Masséna withdraws from Portugal.