The first siege of Pensacola began as part of the broader struggle for territorial control in the southeastern region of North America, where both British and Spanish powers sought dominance. The British aimed to capture Pensacola to establish a more robust foothold in Florida, enhancing their strategic military presence in the region against not only the Spanish but also potential threats from other colonial rivals. Commanded by Colonel Edward Mott, the British forces laid siege to the town which was well-fortified and protected by troops under Spanish Governor Manuel de Montiano.

The siege witnessed intense confrontations, with both sides suffering casualties. The British forces initially succeeded in bombarding the town, causing panic among the Spanish defenders. However, their attempts to breach the defenses were met with staunch resistance and strategic counterattacks from the Spanish forces. An important turning point occurred when the Spanish were able to replenish their supplies and bring in additional reinforcements from nearby locations, counterbalancing the initial British advantage.

As the weeks dragged on, the British forces faced dwindling supplies and morale issues, compounded by a failure to decisively break the Spanish lines. Ultimately, what should have been a straightforward capture transformed into a protracted and challenging conflict. Faced with the prospect of further losses and dwindling provisions, Colonel Mott ordered a retreat, effectively ending the siege. This outcome not only preserved Spanish control over Pensacola but also underscored the logistical difficulties faced by British expeditions in the Americas.