Episode 516: Nelson: God of War (Part 3) - Detailed Summary

Release Date: November 25, 2024
Podcast: The Rest Is History
Host: Dominic Sandbrook and Tom Holland

Overview

In Episode 516 of The Rest Is History, hosts Dominic Sandbrook and Tom Holland delve into the heroic yet tumultuous career of Admiral Horatio Nelson, focusing on the pivotal Battle of Cape St. Vincent and the subsequent ill-fated expedition to Tenerife. This episode captures the essence of Nelson's bravery, strategic genius, and the personal sacrifices that cemented his legacy as one of Britain's greatest naval heroes.

The Battle of Cape St. Vincent

Background and Prelude

The episode opens in February 1797, amidst the Napoleonic Wars. The British Royal Navy, under the command of Admiral Sir John Jervis (later the Earl of St. Vincent), faces a formidable alliance of Spanish and French fleets threatening Britain's control of the Mediterranean and the English Channel. The Spanish fleet, bolstered by Napoleon's advances, aims to join forces with the French, posing a significant threat of invasion.

Tom Holland sets the stage:

"The British have been driven out of the Mediterranean by Napoleon's advances on land. The Spanish have joined the war and are looking to link up with the French, which would be disastrous for Britain." [03:31]

Strategy and Formation

Despite being outnumbered, Jervis remains confident in the Royal Navy's superior skill, valor, and discipline. He devises a plan to engage the Spanish fleet decisively, aiming to capture and incapacitate enemy ships to prevent their unification with the French fleet.

Jervis emphasizes the importance of initiative among his captains, fostering a culture where the "spirit of an order" can sometimes outweigh the literal interpretation. This strategic flexibility becomes crucial in the ensuing battle.

Dominic Sandbrook highlights Jervis's leadership:

"He believes they have to take on the Spanish now to stop them linking up. And he is confident, as he later put it, in the skill, valor and discipline of the officers and men I had the happiness to command." [04:25]

Nelson's Bold Move

As the battle commences on February 14, 1797, the British fleet, comprising 15 ships of the line, confronts the larger Spanish force of 27 ships, including the colossal Santissima Trinidad with 130 guns.

During the heat of combat, a smaller British ship, the Captain, defies orders by breaking formation and charging directly at the Spanish flagship, Santissima Trinidad. This audacious move is led by none other than Admiral Horatio Nelson.

Tom Holland narrates Nelson's daring action:

"Nelson has been watching all this on the Captain. He knows that he's under strict instructions, do not abandon the attack formation. ... But as soon as he sees that something is going wrong, Nelson thinks, I will ignore the letter of the law." [13:14]

Outcome and Impact

Nelson's fearless assault disrupts the Spanish fleet, causing confusion and halting their attempt to escape. This not only buys time for the remaining British ships to regroup but also forces the Spanish to divert their attention away from fleeing to Cadiz.

The battle culminates in a crushing British victory. Out of the 27 Spanish ships, the British capture four as prizes, inflict heavy casualties, and secure an overwhelming strategic advantage.

Dominic Sandbrook summarizes the victory:

"Cape St Vincent is a crushing victory for British naval spirit. Fifteen ships have beaten 27 and they've captured four of the 27 as prizes. Hundreds of Spanish have been killed, thousands wounded, 3,000 taken prisoner. It is an astounding achievement." [20:54]

The Blockade and the Expedition to Tenerife

The Treasure Fleet and the Plan

Following the victory at Cape St. Vincent, the British fleet, now under the new command of Admiral Sir John Jervis (Earl of St. Vincent), learns of a Spanish treasure fleet laden with silver from Cuba and Argentina. Seizing this opportunity could potentially alter the course of the war by crippling Spain's finances and strengthening Britain's position.

Tom Holland explains the motivation:

"They have to capture this treasure. It would make them for life, wouldn't it?" [25:24]

Nelson, ever ambitious, proposes an ambitious expedition to capture the treasure by seizing the Spanish fleet anchored in Tenerife, off the coast of Africa.

The Failed Assault

In July, Nelson leads eight ships, including his new ship, the Theseus, into Tenerife. However, the assault quickly turns disastrous:

• Steep Black Beaches and High Cliffs: The British lacked detailed maps and underestimated the challenging terrain, facing steep beaches and formidable defenses.
• Strong Currents and Poor Timing: The naval crew struggled against strong currents, delaying their approach until dawn when the British ships became visible targets.
• Intense Defenses: The Spanish had well-prepared guns along the shore, leading to heavy casualties during the initial attack.

Tom Holland recounts the failed attempt:

"They start ringing the church bells and firing cannons. Trubridge goes ahead anyway. He leads his men up this beach. They go up this mountain dragging two cannons with them... they're in an absolutely terrible state." [27:28]

Nelson's Injury and Heroism

Determined to salvage the mission, Nelson launches a second, reckless assault directly up the beach. During this charge, he is hit by a massive splinter in his side, causing a grievous injury. Despite the excruciating pain:

• Leadership Amidst Chaos: Nelson remains resolute, rallying his men to continue the attack.
• Josiah's Valor: A young sailor, Josiah, steps up to apply a makeshift tourniquet, saving Nelson's life.

Dominic Sandbrook captures the moment:

"Nelson has got a massive gray splinter stuck in his stomach. Does it stop him? Probably not, no." [16:18]

Nelson continues to lead, eventually falling from his boat due to the severity of his injury. His determination inspires his crew, exemplifying his unwavering commitment to duty.

Aftermath and Consequences

The expedition ends in humiliating failure for the British:

• Casualties: The British lose 150 men with no significant gains.
• Nelson's Injury: Nelson loses his right arm above the elbow, suffers from severe pain, and deals with the psychological toll of the failed mission.
• Professional Repercussions: Jervis criticizes the disastrous plan but supports Nelson, recognizing his bravery and potential for future successes.

Tom Holland reflects on the impact:

"Nelson, in fact through much of his career hasn't taken many prizes. They're always piffling little privateers and things that he's been getting. He's all about, you know, serving his country." [25:48]

Conclusion: Nelson's Legacy and Next Steps

Despite the setbacks at Tenerife, Nelson's reputation as a national hero remains unblemished. His audacious actions at Cape St. Vincent and his relentless pursuit of glory, even in the face of grievous injuries, solidify his legendary status in British naval history.

Jervis assures Nelson that his career is far from over, setting the stage for future exploits, including the illustrious Battle of the Nile, which promises to be a highlight in British naval triumphs.

Dominic Sandbrook teases the next episode:

"Next week we will turn to what for me is possibly the most thrilling chapter in Nelson's life. One of the most glorious episodes, Tom, in British naval history." [35:07]

Notable Quotes

1. Dominic Sandbrook [04:25]:

   "He is confident, as he later put it in the skill, valor and discipline of the officers and men I had the happiness to command."

2. Tom Holland [13:14]:

   "Nelson thinks, I will ignore the letter of the law... I'm going straight for the biggest ship on earth, the Santissima Trinidad."

3. Dominic Sandbrook [20:54]:

   "Cape St Vincent is a crushing victory for British naval spirit. Fifteen ships have beaten 27 and they've captured four of the 27 as prizes."

4. Tom Holland [25:24]:

   "They could make them for life, wouldn't it?"

5. Dominic Sandbrook [34:30]:

   "He becomes a burden to my friends and useless to my country."

6. Tom Holland [35:07]:

   "Next week we will turn to what for me is possibly the most thrilling chapter in Nelson's life."

Final Thoughts

Episode 516 masterfully intertwines the grandeur of naval warfare with the personal struggles of one of history's most revered figures. Nelson's journey is portrayed not just as a series of battles, but as a testament to human courage, resilience, and the complexities of leadership. This episode serves both as an homage to Nelson's legacy and a critical examination of the costs of heroism.

For listeners eager to explore more of Nelson's exploits and the intricate tapestry of British naval history, the upcoming episodes promise to deliver even more thrilling narratives and insightful analysis.

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