France Attempts to Invade Great Britain

22nd February 1797

Illustrazione monocromatico di soldati francesi che sbarcano sulla costa gallese.

On this day, the recently-formed French Republic (Revolutionary France) attempted a military invasion of Great Britain in what is often referred to as ‘the last invasion of Britain’. The plan was for two diversionary forces to set sail for Newcastle and Wales, while the main French force of 15,000 men headed for Bantry Bay in Ireland. However, atrocious weather conditions and poor discipline on board meant that only the Wales contingent arrived at destination. Under the cover of darkness, 1400 French troops disembarked close to Fishguard on the Welsh coast where the local defenders, although seriously outnumbered, managed to trick them into an unconditional surrender two days later. According to legend, a local shoemaker, Jemima Nicholas, single-handedly captured a dozen French soldiers at the point of her pitchfork and locked them overnight in St Mary’s Church.

Puoi trovare altre brevi notizie storiche QUI


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Author: Tony

Born and raised in Malaysia between Kuala Lumpur and Singapore. Educated at Wycliffe College in Stonehouse, Gloucestershire, England. Living in the foothills of Mount Etna since 1982 and teaching English at Catania University since 1987.

2 thoughts on “France Attempts to Invade Great Britain”

  1. I suspect the the God of the Anglicans was in favour of the English and Welsh. that tome, too

    The Invicible Armada had been equally hampered by strong winds and foul weather.

    Liked by 1 person

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