The Siege of Cádiz began when French troops laid siege to the strategic Spanish port city of Cádiz, which was crucial for both naval access and supply routes. General Pierre Augereau commanded approximately 20,000 French troops in their effort to seize the city, which was home to a substantial Spanish government and was pivotal in the broader context of the Peninsular War. The Spanish defenders, bolstered by a smaller but resilient British contingent, prepared for a protracted engagement that would test their resolve against the seasoned French army. The French aimed to capture Cádiz to secure their dominance in the region and cut off Spain's maritime trade and support from Britain. Cádiz, at this time, served not only as a military stronghold but also as a political center for the Spanish resistance against the French occupation. As the siege unfolded, both sides faced challenges, including supply shortages and the harsh realities of warfare, which heavily influenced the dynamics within the city and among the surrounding regions. The extended siege lasted for several years, during which various skirmishes, supply attempts, and battles occurred as both sides strove to hold or gain control of this critical location.