In what year did the French and Spanish land a force to attack the British base in Gibraltar?

The event in question is related to the Great Siege of Gibraltar, which took place during the American Revolutionary War. The French and Spanish forces mounted an attack on Gibraltar in 1779, marking the beginning of a prolonged siege that would continue until 1783. However, the significant military engagement that included direct attacks aimed at capturing the base occurred in 1782, when a coordinated effort by the French and Spanish resulted in a more intense siege.

While 1781 might be seen as a year of active involvement in various military campaigns, it was not the specific year when the French and Spanish forces landed with the specific intention to capture Gibraltar. The 1782 siege was notable for bringing various military elements together against the British.

Understanding the timeline and key events surrounding Gibraltar during these years provides clarity to why the year 1782 is the pivotal moment concerning the siege, while 1781 can be seen as part of the ongoing struggles of the war, rather than a decisive point for the siege on Gibraltar itself.