Battle of Talavera (IMPORTANT BATTLE)

Question 1

Why was Wellington slowed down in mid-1809?

Answer 1

Lack of money, shoes and supplies

Question 2

How did the situation in mid-1809 seemed favorable for the British?

Answer 2

1. Austria and France were at war so no reinforcements in Spain
2. 280,000 troops widely dispersed in Spain

Question 3

When did Wellington cross into Spain and with how many troops and why?

Answer 3

In July 1809, Wellington crossed into Spain with 20,000 troops alongside General Cuesta with 34,000 Spanish troops with the aim to attack Victor at Talavera

Question 4

What were the issues with the Spanish army when going to Talavera?

Answer 4

Appalling allies = Cuesta had no military ability and the army was not disciplined at all

Question 5

What were the issues with the Spanish army when going to Talavera?

Answer 5

Appalling allies = Cuesta had no military ability and the army was not disciplined at all

Question 6

There was a prime opportunity to attack Victor but failed to go ahead. Why?

Answer 6

Cuesta refused to Wellington’s plan last-minute

Question 7

What happened to Spanish troops when Victor attacked in late July?

Answer 7

Spanish troops engaged at Talavera and 2,000 Spanish troops fled after firing a vollet at distant French troops after apparently being frightened off by the noise of their own guns, hiding behind the walls of Talavera