First Battle of Copenhagen: Nelson forces Denmark to an armistice

Background. In early 1801, the British government assembled a fleet off Great Yarmouth at Yarmouth Roads with the goal of breaking up the Second League of Armed Neutrality. This action was the second attempt by the British to prevent a Franco-Danish alliance, as they had previously entered Øresund in August 1800 to persuade Denmark not to ally with France.

Engagement. Vice-Admiral Horatio Nelson led the main attack against the Royal Dano-Norwegian Navy anchored near Copenhagen. On the morning of 2 April 1801, Nelson began to advance into Copenhagen harbour, resulting in a British victory over the smaller Danish force.

Aftermath. Following the victory, Nelson was rewarded with titles in May and August 1801. He spent the summer reconnoitring the French coast, seeing little action apart from a failed attack on Boulogne in August, before the Peace of Amiens interrupted his career in 1802.