The capture of Gibraltar by an English and Dutch fleet, commanded by Admiral Sir George Rooke, was a significant military engagement during the War of the Spanish Succession. The operation aimed to take control of this key strategic location from the Spanish, under the influence of Archduke Charles, who was a claimant to the Spanish throne. Gibraltar's location at the entrance to the Mediterranean made it an invaluable asset for naval operations, and capturing it would provide a stronghold against Spanish forces.

On this occasion, Rooke’s fleet consisted of approximately 40 ships. After several hours of bombardment on the fortress, the defending Spanish forces surrendered. The capture was notable not only for its immediate military implications but also for its long-term effects on British naval strategy and territorial ambitions in the region. Following the capture, the British would maintain control of Gibraltar, establishing it as a critical naval base that would remain important for centuries.

The successful assault marked a turning point in the War of the Spanish Succession, showcasing the effectiveness of the Allied naval coalition against Spain and its French allies. It not only enhanced the stature of Admiral Rooke but also solidified the role of England and the Dutch Republic within the Mediterranean theatre of the conflict.