Description:
(Admiral)
Lord Horatio Nelson is considered as one of the most heroic figures of Britain. Serving as the first Viscount, he was a British flag officer who was known for his commitments in the Royal Navy and his service during the Napoleonic Wars. What gave Nelson an edge over other Navy officers was his quick grasp of strategy and unconventional tactics. These abilities earned him a number of decisive naval victories. He steadily rose through the ranks and served with leading naval commanders of the period before obtaining his own command in 1778. Under Nelson's leadership, the Royal Navy proved its supremacy over the French. His most famous engagement, at Cape Trafalgar, saved Britain from threat of invasion by Napoleon. In 1805, his fleet was engaged at the Battle of Trafalgar where he was fatally wounded by a French sniper. His death secured him the position of one of Britain’s most heroic figures and recorded a legacy that remains highly influential till date.
Birthday
September 29, 1758 (Libra)
Born In
England
Alternative names
Horatio Nelson, 1st Viscount Nelson
Died on
October 21, 1805
Spouse/Ex-
Frances Nelson (m. 1787–1805)
Parents
Edmund Nelson
Catherine Suckling
Children
Horatia Nelson
Relatives
William Nelson
What was Horatio Nelson's role in the Battle of Trafalgar?
Horatio Nelson was the British naval commander who led the British fleet to victory against the combined French and Spanish fleets at the Battle of Trafalgar on October 21, 1805.
How did Horatio Nelson lose his arm?
Horatio Nelson lost his right arm during the unsuccessful attempt to conquer Santa Cruz de Tenerife in 1797, when he was hit by grapeshot fired from the Spanish defenders.
What was the significance of Horatio Nelson's naval tactics?
Horatio Nelson is renowned for his innovative naval tactics, such as the "Nelson Touch," which involved concentrating British firepower on a smaller section of the enemy fleet to achieve a decisive victory.
How did Horatio Nelson die?
Horatio Nelson died during the Battle of Trafalgar on October 21, 1805, after being shot by a French sniper. Despite his fatal wound, he lived long enough to learn that his fleet had won the battle.
What impact did Horatio Nelson's victories have on British naval history?
Horatio Nelson's victories, especially at the Battle of Trafalgar, established British naval supremacy for decades and played a crucial role in protecting Britain from invasion during the Napoleonic Wars.