1 December 1807
French seize Lisbon

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The French capture of Lisbon, in an attempt to close Portuguese ports to the British (see Continental System), marks the beginning of Napoleon's military involvement on the Iberian peninsula. Three months later, an army under Marshal Murat moves into Spain – supposedly to restore order as the king, Charles IV, struggles for control against supporters of his son Ferdinand. Then, on 6 June 1808, Napoleon makes his brother Joseph the new king of Spain. This provokes open rebellion, particularly among the peasantry and Catholic Church. Within two months, the British land a force in Lisbon under Sir Arthur Wellesley – soon to become the 1st duke of Wellington – to support the Spanish and Portuguese resistance. The six-year Peninsular War follows.

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