The first serious meeting between the British expeditionary force and the French. General Delaborde, with a division [5,000 men] of Junot's corps took up a strong defensive position to delay the far superior British force [13,000] under Wellesley [Wellington]. Due to a misinterpretation of orders the 29th foot, instead of moving to threaten out flanking attacked frontally up a steep slope. The French counter attack obliged Wellesley to send forward his whole line to rescue the 29th. The French were driven off in disorder leaving their guns and some equipment.

Town of Roliça approximately 50 miles north of Lisbon (Portugal)

French Peninsular Army

Number engaged :

4,765

Casualties :

600 (12.59%)

British Peninsular Army

Number engaged :

4,897

Casualties :

441 (9.01%)