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Horatio Nelson

Horatio Nelson

Naval officer

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Quick Facts

Battle of Trafalgar
Nelson's Column
Victory at the Nile

England expects every man to do his duty. Naval hero who died winning Trafalgar.

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Life Journey

1758Born in Burnham Thorpe, Norfolk

Horatio Nelson was born to Reverend Edmund and Catherine Nelson in Burnham Thorpe, Norfolk. He was the sixth of eleven children in a family of modest means.

1771Joins the Royal Navy

At the age of 12, Nelson joins the Royal Navy as a midshipman on HMS Raisonnable, marking the beginning of his naval career. He is under the care of his uncle, Captain Maurice Suckling.

1776Promoted to Lieutenant

Nelson is promoted to Lieutenant and given command of the sloop HMS Badger. He serves in the Caribbean, where he gains valuable experience in navigation and leadership.

1779Commands HMS Hinchinbrook

At the age of 21, Nelson is given command of the 28-gun frigate HMS Hinchinbrook. He continues to serve in the Caribbean, where he faces challenges and hones his skills as a naval commander.

1787Marries Frances Nisbet

Nelson marries Frances Nisbet, a widow with a young son, on the island of Nevis. The marriage is initially happy but later becomes strained due to Nelson's long absences at sea.

1794Loses Right Eye at Corsica

During the siege of Calvi in Corsica, Nelson is struck by flying sand and gravel in his right eye, leading to partial blindness. Despite this, he continues to serve with distinction.

1797Victory at the Battle of Cape St. Vincent

Nelson distinguishes himself at the Battle of Cape St. Vincent, leading a daring boarding action that contributes to a decisive British victory over the Spanish fleet.

1797Loses Right Arm at Tenerife

During an assault on Tenerife, Nelson is wounded and his right arm is amputated. Despite this setback, he returns to active duty and continues to command with unwavering determination.

1801Victory at the Battle of Copenhagen

Nelson leads a daring attack on the Danish fleet in Copenhagen, defying orders to retreat. His bold actions result in a significant British victory, earning him the title of Viscount.

1805Died at the Battle of Trafalgar

Nelson is mortally wounded by a French sniper during the Battle of Trafalgar. His leadership and strategic genius ensure a decisive British victory, but he dies aboard HMS Victory, revered as a national hero.

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