Vice Admiral Edward Vernon attacked Cartagena twice in 1740 but lacked the troops and supplies required to hold the place. Those raids struck an underprepared defense yet failed to exploit the opportunity. They demonstrated Britain's ability to bombard and damage Spanish positions without proving that the force could capture and occupy them. By returning with a major expedition a year later, the British surrendered surprise and gave Spanish commanders time to repair fortifications, train defenders, and stock the position.
Notable Point · 16:31-18:15
Vernon's 1740 raids give Cartagena a year to prepare
Two limited British attacks in 1740 damage Cartagena without capturing it and advertise the target of the much larger expedition to come.