2) Vimeiro
Wellesley and his 14,000 men made their first major stand against the French in a valley near the village of Vimeiro, on 20th August 1808. The spot of countryside had been chosen as it was well-placed to stop an attack from the French coming North.
Despite a direct frontal assault, the Anglo-Portuguese held their line and won a comprehensive victory losing 700 men compared to a French loss of 2,000.
Peter explains the action, and examines an actual rifle from the battle.
Click on map to enlarge view
