The Siege of Zaragoza began when French General Jean-Pierre Augereau initiated a military operation against the city, which was a critical stronghold during the Peninsular War. The city had previously experienced uprisings and had become a symbol of resistance against the Napoleonic invasion of Spain. As the French army encircled Zaragoza, they aimed to subdue the local population and gain a strategic advantage in their campaign across the Iberian Peninsula.

Zaragoza's defenders, comprising local militias and civilians, were determined to resist French occupation. They employed various guerrilla tactics and fortified the city's defenses, effectively utilizing the urban landscape to their advantage. The situation in Zaragoza was particularly grim; the French forces were well-equipped and organized, while the Spanish defenders faced shortages in supplies and ammunition. The siege would last for several months and became notorious for its brutality and the resilience displayed by the inhabitants.

As the siege progressed, it became evident that Zaragoza was not just a battleground but a focal point for national identity and pride among the Spanish people. The resistance at Zaragoza inspired other cities and groups within Spain to rise against the French. The city's defenders, despite suffering heavy casualties and harsh conditions, became a symbol of hope and defiance in the face of occupation, significantly impacting the morale of the Spanish population throughout the Peninsular War.