The Battle of Rio Nuevo marked a critical moment in the Anglo-Spanish War, focusing on the struggle for control over Jamaica, a strategically important Caribbean island. Following the 1655 English capture of Jamaica from Spain, efforts were made by Spanish leaders to regain this territory, which served as a vital center for trade and military operations in the Caribbean. On June 25, 1658, a Spanish fleet commanded by Don Juan de Ibarra launched an ambitious assault against the English garrison stationed near the Rio Nuevo River. English forces, under the command of Colonel Edward D'Oyley, were well-prepared and fortified in their defenses, making the ensuing clash fierce and intense.

The battle unfolded with the Spanish forces making initial gains, pushing towards the English positions. However, their efforts were thwarted by the resilience of the English troops and the strategic advantages of the English fortifications. Casualties were significant on both sides, and the intense fighting lasted for several hours. Ultimately, the Spanish were forced to retreat, accepting a brutal defeat. This failure not only hampered Spanish efforts to regain Jamaica but also solidified English control over the island, leading to its development as a key British Caribbean outpost.

The defeat at the Battle of Rio Nuevo had long-lasting implications for both countries involved. For Spain, it exemplified the challenges they faced in maintaining their colonial dominance in the Caribbean amidst growing English naval power. For England, the successful defense reinforced their territorial claims and allowed them to invest in the further development of Jamaica, setting the stage for its future as a productive sugar colony. This battle also highlighted the shifting balance of power in the Caribbean during the 17th century as European nations vied for control over valuable colonial resources.