Nelson's Fleet at Trafalgar - Softcover

The Battle of Trafalgar in 1805 was the most famous of the age of sail, and the last in the long series between Britain and France. It is famous, too, for the death of Horatio Nelson, one of Britain's greatest naval heroes, whose tactical genius and leadership saved Britain from invasion by Napoleon's fleet.
Brian Lavery of the National Maritime Museum takes the reader through the dramatic story of a pivotal battle in British history. Using previously unpublished eyewitness accounts, letters and research, he reveals a vivid picture of the real people behind the conflict - of Nelson himself, his admirals and officers; but also the untold stories of the ordinary men who served in the fleet.
Illustrated with colour images from the National Maritime Museum's archives, the book provides real insight into the life of the seaman - from the brutality of the pressgangs to daily routine, health, discipline and the hardships of a life at sea. The stories behind the famous 'ships of the line' - Victory, Bellerophon, Mars, and Revenge - also feature, with expert evaluation of their construction and specifications.

Brian Lavery is Curator of Naval History at the National Maritime Museum, Greenwich.