Admiral Horatio Nelson set his sights on capturing Tenerife as part of Britain's efforts to secure its trade routes and diminish Spanish influence during the late 18th century. The British aimed to take the island, controlled by Spain, to enhance their military position following the outbreak of the French Revolutionary War. In July 1797, Nelson commanded a fleet that aimed to conduct a surprise attack on the island. On the 25th, as British forces landed on the shores near San András, they encountered stiff resistance from Spanish troops and local militia, who had prepared strategically for such an assault.

During the chaotic engagement, Nelson's forces were met with unexpected challenges, including difficult terrain and well-fortified positions held by the Spanish defenders. Despite their initial momentum, the battle quickly turned against them. Nelson himself was wounded during the fighting; a cannonball struck his right arm, necessitating its amputation. This injury was symbolic, as it marked not only a personal loss for Nelson but also the failure of the operation itself, compounded by the heavy casualties sustained by his men.

The conquest was ultimately aborted, leading to the withdrawal of British forces and a strategic setback for Nelson. The battle highlighted the resilience of the Spanish defenders and the difficulties of conducting military operations against fortified positions. Nelson's infamous defeat at Tenerife would linger in his career, affecting his reputation, but he would go on to achieve greater fame in subsequent naval battles, notably at Trafalgar.