Quick Facts
England expects every man to do his duty. Naval hero who died winning Trafalgar.
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Life Journey
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.