The Life and Exploits of Britain's Greatest Frigate Captain

Sir Edward Pellew, 1st Viscount Exmouth, was one of the most celebrated naval commanders during the Napoleonic Wars. He was known for his daring and innovative tactics, as well as his skill in frigate warfare. Pellew's exploits earned him the admiration of both his contemporaries and his enemies, and he is considered to be one of the greatest frigate captains in British history.

Early Life and Career

Edward Pellew was born in Cornwall, England, on 19 April 1757. He was the son of a naval officer, and he joined the Royal Navy at the age of 13. Pellew quickly rose through the ranks, and by the age of 20 he was a lieutenant.

Commander: The Life and Exploits of Britain's Greatest Frigate Captain

by Stephen Taylor

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	13641 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	370 pages

FREE

In 1780, Pellew was given command of his first ship, the frigate HMS Winchelsea. He quickly proved to be a skilled and daring commander. In 1782, he captured the French frigate Vierge de la Garde, which was one of the most valuable prizes taken by the British during the war.

The Napoleonic Wars

Pellew played a major role in the Napoleonic Wars, which began in 1793. He was given command of the frigate HMS Indefatigable in 1794, and he quickly established himself as one of the most successful frigate captains in the Royal Navy.

Indefatigable was a powerful frigate, and Pellew used her to great effect against the French. He captured numerous prizes, and he also played a key role in the defeat of the French fleet at the Battle of the Nile in 1798.

In 1800, Pellew was promoted to rear-admiral, and he was given command of a squadron of frigates. He continued to be a thorn in the side of the French, and he captured numerous prizes. In 1805, he played a key role in the victory at the Battle of Trafalgar.

Later Career

After the Napoleonic Wars, Pellew continued to serve in the Royal Navy. He was promoted to vice-admiral in 1810, and he was given command of the Mediterranean Fleet in 1814.

In 1816, Pellew was promoted to admiral, and he was created 1st Viscount Exmouth. He continued to serve in the Royal Navy until his death in 1833.

Legacy

Edward Pellew was one of the most successful and celebrated naval commanders in British history. He was a skilled and daring frigate captain, and he played a major role in the defeat of the French during the Napoleonic Wars. Pellew's legacy continues to inspire naval officers today.