Siege XV

The sovereignty of a small but crucial piece of land is at stake. Besieged and fought over fourteen times throughout its history, Jebel-Tarik, or Tarik's Hill – named after an eighth-century Muslim invader – came to be known as the Rock of Gibraltar. This strategically located fortress controls the trade routes between Europe and North Africa, linking the Atlantic Ocean with the Mediterranean and the Middle East. Its possession can dictate the flow of commerce and industry in this volatile region. In a bid to expel the British, King Carlos of Spain allies with the French. Meanwhile, two young farm lads from Lancashire embark on separate journeys that lead them to converge on this contested ground, each playing a role in the unfolding drama. This is the story of the last great siege of Gibraltar, detailing the armies and navies involved and the heroic actions of soldiers and sailors on both sides. Who will prevail: Britain or Spain?