Did the Duke of Wellington Ever Lose a Battle?

A better question would have been “Was Wellington losing the Battle of Waterloo before the Prussians arrived?”

Unique and Significant Battle Record

Contrary to popular belief, the Duke of Wellington did not lose a single battle when in command. His battle record clearly demonstrates a series of decisive victories, some of which stand as some of the most significant in history. Here we explore his battlefield achievements and the circumstances that may be misconstrued as losses.

Historical Battles and Victories

No, the Duke of Wellington never fought a battle more than once. Each victory was hard-fought and significant, marking a turning point in various conflicts.

Nuggling - Victory Ahmadian - Victory Assaye - Victory Argon - Victory Gwaligur - Victory Kjoge - Victory Rolica - Victory Vimeiro - Victory Grijó - Victory óporto - Victory Talavera - Victory Bussaco - Victory Redinha - Draw Fuentes d’Onoro - Victory 2nd Badajoz - Defeat Cuidad Rodrigo - Victory 3rd Badajoz - Victory Salamanca Forts - Victory Salamanca - Victory Burgos - Defeat Vitoria - Victory Saurion - Victory Echalar - Victory 2nd San Sebastian - Victory Bidasoa - Victory Bidasoa and Rhune - Victory Nivelles - Victory Orthez - Victory Toulouse - Victory Quatre Bras - Draw Waterloo - Victory

This list includes battles in which the Duke of Wellington was the THE COMMANDER. He participated in several victories and defeats as a battalion or brigade commander, under other commanders like Gambier in the Battle of Copenhagen.

Reasons for Misconceptions

Some battles seen as losses were actually engagements where British troops were outnumbered or where other circumstances were at play. His involvement in some famous victories also extends to other notable commanders like Lake and Abercromby.

Specific Battles and Losses

Throughout his career, the Duke of Wellington faced 27 victories, 2 draws, and 2 defeats.

The Losses:

**Battle of Pombal** - 16,000 men against Ney's 9,300 men **Battle of Redinha** - 25,000 men and 12 guns against Ney's 7,000 men and 6 guns **Battle of Tordesillas** **Battle of El Bodon** **Battle of Aldea da Ponte** **Second Siege of Badajoz** - 1st phase: 20,700 men against Philippon's 4,000 men, 2nd phase: 14,000 men against Philippon's 3,600 men **Siege of Burgos** - 35,000 men, 13 engineers, and 8 14-pound cannons against Dubreton's 2,000 men **Siege of San Sebastian** - 9,750 men against Rey's 3,380 men **Battles of Toulouse and Quatre Bras**, and **Talavera** should be considered as partial defeats by both sides; let’s call them draws.

Despite these challenges, Wellington's forces often outnumbered their opponent in these battles. His strategic brilliance and tenacity ensured he could overcome significant disadvantages in some cases.

Conclusion

It’s fascinating to examine the perspective on the Duke of Wellington's battles more closely. His victories at the Battle of Waterloo and other key conflicts highlight his leadership and command skills, even in the face of overwhelming odds and numerical superiority in some cases. The inclusion of lesser-known engagements underscores the complexity of his military career and the challenges he faced.