War of Jenkins' Ear: British Georgia vs. Spanish Florida

Conflict Overview

The War of Jenkins' Ear (1739–1748) pitted British forces based in Georgia against Spanish Florida. It originated from trade disputes and the alleged severing of Captain Robert Jenkins' ear by Spanish coast guards.

Key Events in the Southeast

• 1740: James Oglethorpe (Georgia founder) leads failed siege of St. Augustine.
• 1742: Spanish counter-invasion of Georgia repulsed at Battle of Bloody Marsh (St. Simons Island).
• Conflict merged into wider War of Austrian Succession (King George's War in America).

Outcome

Status quo ante bellum; borders unchanged. The war demonstrated Georgia's strategic value as a military buffer for the Carolinas.