Battle of Maguilla

Overview

In the Battle of Maguilla a British cavalry brigade led by Major General John Slade attacked a similar-sized French cavalry brigade commanded by General of Brigade Charles Lallemand. The British dragoons scored an initial success, routing the French dragoons and capturing a number of them. The British troopers recklessly galloped after their foes, losing all order. At length, the French reserve squadron charged into the British, followed by the French main body which rallied. With the tables turned, the French dragoons chased the British until the horses of both sides were too exhausted for the battle to continue. The action took place during the Peninsular War, near Maguilla, Spain, a distance of 17 kilometres (11 mi) northeast of Llerena.

Overview adapted from Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0.

Significance

The Battle of Maguilla illustrated a persistent command and discipline problem in British cavalry operations during the Peninsular War. A British dragoon brigade under Slade achieved an early advantage, routing the French cavalry and taking prisoners, but the troopers abandoned formation in pursuit, leaving themselves vulnerable. A French reserve squadron exploited the disorder, rallied the main body, and reversed the outcome, driving the British back until mutual exhaustion ended the action. British casualties of 118 against a force of roughly equal size underscored the cost of uncontrolled pursuit. The engagement reinforced Wellington's ongoing frustration with the offensive conduct of his cavalry arm, a limitation that would remain a concern throughout the campaign in the Peninsula.

Tactics

Forces & casualties

Commanders (2)