The Final Phase of the War –…

The Final Phase of the War – Portugal Liberated, Spain in Retreat (November–December 1762)

By November 1762, the Franco-Spanish invasion of Portugal had completely collapsed. With the remnants of the Bourbon armies expelled from Portuguese territory, only two frontier strongholds—Chaves and Almeida—remained under Spanish control.

The Anglo-Portuguese army, now in full pursuit, had not only driven the invaders back to the border but had even crossed into Spain, capturing Spanish soldiers on enemy soil.

The Third Spanish Offensive (November 1762) – A Final Desperate Attack

Despite their devastating losses, the Spanish attempted one last offensive, hoping to salvage their disastrous campaign:

• Spanish forces launched surprise attacks on the Portuguese towns of Ouguela and Marvão.
• However, both assaults failed, as the reinforced Anglo-Portuguese army repelled the attackers and even captured more Spanish prisoners.

The Anglo-Portuguese Counterattack – Entering Spain

• On November 19, 1762, a Portuguese force led by British Colonel Wrey crossed into Spain and attacked the region of Codicera.
• Additional Spanish prisoners were taken, further humiliating the already demoralized Bourbon army.

Aranda Seeks an Armistice – The War Ends

By late November 1762, Count of Aranda realized that further fighting was futile:

• His army was ruined, demoralized, and unable to sustain further operations.
• The Anglo-Portuguese army was advancing, taking prisoners inside Spanish territory.

Recognizing defeat, Aranda sent an emissary to Count Lippe on November 24, proposing an armistice.

The terms were accepted, and on December 1, 1762, a formal ceasefire was signed, ending the war in Portugal.

Conclusion – A Decisive Victory for Portugal and Britain

• Portugal emerged victorious, having completely expelled the invaders and even launched counteroffensives into Spain.
• The Spanish campaign, which had once seemed unstoppable, had ended in disaster.
• Portugal remained independent, and the Bourbon dream of forcing it into the Family Compact had been utterly destroyed.

The war had ended not with Spanish troops marching into Lisbon—but with Portuguese and British forces capturing Spanish prisoners inside Spain itself.