Algiers expedition (1519)

The Algiers expedition of 1519 was a military undertaking by a Spanish fleet led by Hugo de Moncada against the city of Algiers, then a stronghold of the Barbary corsairs under the control of Aruj Barbarossa. The expedition aimed to capture Algiers and eliminate its threat to Spanish shipping and coastal settlements in the Mediterranean.

The Spanish fleet, comprising a significant number of ships and soldiers, landed near Algiers and engaged Aruj's forces. Despite the Spanish having superior naval power, Aruj's experienced corsairs and their knowledge of the terrain allowed them to mount a strong defense. The Spanish attack was ultimately repelled with heavy losses, forcing them to withdraw and abandon the attempt to seize Algiers.

The failure of the 1519 expedition significantly hampered Spanish efforts to control the Barbary coast and curb the activities of the corsairs operating from Algiers. It solidified Aruj Barbarossa's control over the city and reinforced Algiers' reputation as a formidable pirate stronghold. This outcome would have long-term consequences for the balance of power in the Western Mediterranean Sea, fueling continued conflict between Spain and the Barbary states for decades to come.