Middlesex Day
May 16, Friday
England
History of the Battle of Albuera
The Battle of Albuera was a battle fought on 16 May 1811 in southern Spain, near the town of Albuera, between the allied forces of Great Britain, Portugal and Spain on one side, and the army of Napoleonic France on the other. The British forces, consisting of the 30th Infantry Division under the command of Lieutenant General Sir William Carroll, were victorious despite suffering heavy casualties.
It is particularly notable that the Middlesex Infantry Brigade was part of the British Army at the battle and played a decisive role in defeating the French. The victory was important in the context of the overall Peninsular War, helping to bolster the morale of the Allied forces.
How Middlesex Day is Celebrated
On 16 May, the Battle of Albuera Day, many historical and military organisations, as well as local authorities in Middlesex, may organise events to remember the events of the era and the importance of the battle:
Commemorative Events: Some towns in Middlesex may hold ceremonies to remember the soldiers who fought at the Battle of Albuera. There are re-enactments of the battle and historical tours of sites associated with the events of the era.
Educational Events Schools and museums may hold lectures and exhibitions on the Peninsular War, the Battle of La Albuera and Middlesex's role in the war.
Remembrance ceremonies: In some places, moments of silence may be held to remember those who died in the battle.