British invasions of the Río de la Plata

The British attacked twice: in 1806 the city was recaptured by militia under Liniers, and in 1807 the renewed assault on Buenos Aires ended in surrender amid street fighting

Belligerents

Background

During the Napoleonic Wars, the United Kingdom sought to seize Spain's colonies in South America. In June 1806 Beresford led a small force in a surprise attack on Buenos Aires, and the Spanish viceroy abandoned the city and fled.

Course of the battle

1. Surprise attack succeedsIn June 1806 the British landed and occupied Buenos Aires with almost no resistance
2. Militia retake the cityIn August Liniers mustered militia and garrison troops from Montevideo and counterattacked; the British surrendered
3. The British returnIn 1807 the British, reinforced, captured Montevideo, and in July Whitelocke led a large army against Buenos Aires
4. Defeat in street fightingResidents fought them from streets and rooftops; after heavy losses the British surrendered and withdrew from the Río de la Plata

Outcome at a glance

Impact

Repelling the British showed the criollos their own strength; the viceroy was ousted and replaced by Liniers, chosen by the militia, which laid the groundwork for the May Revolution three years later.