French Invasion of Fishguard and Its Defeat
February 21st, 1797
February 21st, 1797

How Long Ago?
228 years, 22 days ago
Location
Fishguard, Wales
Category
Military & Warfare
War/Conflict
French Revolutionary Wars
People
- Sir John Doyle
- General W.G. Smith
Links & References
Tags
French Invasion of Fishguard and Its Defeat
A force of 1,400 French soldiers attempted to invade Britain at Fishguard, seeking to support the Society of United Irishmen. They were met by a contingent of 500 British reservists. The French, despite their numerical superiority, were unable to secure a victory and ultimately retreated, marking a significant interaction between France and Britain during this turbulent period.
French troops aimed to aid Irish revolutionaries.
Only 500 British reservists faced 1,400 French soldiers.
Invasion ended in retreat within a few days.
The event shaped British fears of French influence.
What Happened?
In February 1797, a contingent of 1,400 French troops landed on the coast of Wales at Fishguard, aiming to aid the Society of United Irishmen, who were seeking independence from British rule. The backdrop to this incursion was the larger context of the French Revolutionary Wars, during which revolutionary fervor was igniting across Europe. The soldiers who invaded Fishguard were responding to calls for assistance from Irish revolutionaries who sought to overthrow British rule in Ireland. The French hoped that their presence would spark further uprisings in both Ireland and Britain. However, the reality of the expedition quickly turned grim. On the British side, local reservists, numbering only about 500, hastily mobilized to confront the invasion. With limited military resources and lack of experience, this group included local militia and some volunteers. The engagement lasted only a few days and ended with the French forces being unable to make inroads. Miscommunication and organizational challenges plagued the French troops, leading to their rapid retreat back to their ships and safety.
Why Does it Matter?
This event underscores a crucial moment in the geopolitical relations between France and Britain during the late 18th century. The Fishguard invasion highlighted the fears Britain had concerning French influence and the potential for domestic uprisings. It was a precursor of the larger conflicts that would unfold, and it also illustrated the limits of revolutionary fervor. The failure of this invasion ultimately dampened the aspirations of the Society of United Irishmen in their quest for independence.
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