Trafalgar: Nelson takes command off Cadiz and the defeat of the Franco-Spanish fleet

Background. The Battle of Trafalgar occurred during the War of the Third Coalition as part of Napoleon's plan to control the English Channel for an invasion of Britain. The British Royal Navy maintained blockades against French and Spanish fleets, including Cádiz, to prevent their escape and ensure naval dominance in European waters.

Command and Dispositions. Vice-Admiral Horatio Nelson took command of the British fleet blockading Cádiz in 1805 after resuming active service. French Vice-Admiral Pierre-Charles Villeneuve commanded the combined fleet, which sailed from Cádiz on 18 October 1805 despite light winds, following earlier orders from Napoleon to move to Naples.

The Engagement. Patrolling British frigates sighted the allied fleet leaving harbour on 20 October 1805. The subsequent fleet action on 21 October resulted in a British victory over the combined French and Spanish navies. Nelson was fatally shot during the battle, marking a decisive naval triumph for Britain.

Aftermath. Following the battle, four ships remained at large until they were captured by a British squadron on 4 November 1805 at the Battle of Cape Ortegal. In the aftermath of a storm, Collingwood wrote to the British Admiralty in November 1805, documenting the situation.