Siege of Pensacola

The Siege of Pensacola, which took place between March and May 1781, was a critical battle in the American Revolutionary War, led by Spanish General Bernardo de Gálvez and involving a diverse coalition of Spanish, French, and American forces. Facing multiple attacks by pro-British Choctaw Indians and British troops, as well as inclement weather, the Spanish army was bolstered by reinforcements from Havana. After an intense siege involving elaborate engineering works and bombardments, a howitzer shell struck a British magazine, causing a devastating explosion. This event turned the tide in favor of the Spanish, who soon overwhelmed the remaining British defenses. General John Campbell surrendered on May 10, 1781, resulting in a significant Spanish victory that ended British sovereignty in West Florida and weakened British influence in the Gulf of Mexico.