Nelson, Trafalgar and the Meaning of Victory

Andrew Lambert explains why Nelson’s life and death should never be forgotten.

The Battle of Trafalgar, as Seen from the Mizen Starboard Shrouds of the Victory, oil on canvas painting by JMW Turner, c. 1806, Tate Britain

On October 21st, 1805, the Royal Navy ended the greatest threat to Britain, and her world position, since the Armada but in the process Admiral Lord Nelson died. In death, Nelson, like King Arthur and other national saviours and redeemers, was recreated as a secular deity.

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