Battle of Jiaoding

The Battle of Jiaoding was a naval battle fought at the ancient city of Jiaoding, near modern day Shanghai. It was fought between the late Lian Dynasty against the Spanish Empire supported by Portugal in 1520. The battle resulted in Lian victory, however, ended in the death of Emperor Guangli at only age 38, leading his young son, Emperor Zhuling, who was only 14 at the time, to ascend the throne. This would lead to eventual civil unrest and political struggles for power that greatly weakened the Lian.

Background
During the late Lian Dynasty during the late reign of Emperor Guangli, Spain, who had originally made friendly relations with the Lian, decided that Lian's naval influence in international trade was too great, and decided to take matters in military conflict. They declared war after attacking a small port at Liaodong, hoping to create a pocket of space for them to set up war camps, but they were repelled. This would start the War of the Red Waters, the first war fought over international waters. The Spanish were supported by the Portuguese (more than 1000 troops) and the Ottoman Empire (equipment only). The Ottomans would soon change to be on Lian's side after Suleiman the Magnificent took over the Ottoman throne.