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Nelson's Trafalgar: The Battle That Changed the World
An explosive chronicle of history's greatest sea battle, from the co-author of the forthcoming The Greatest Siege in British History (March 2018)
In the tradition of Antony Beevor's Stalingrad, Nelson's Trafalgar presents the definitive blow-by-blow account of the world's most famous naval battle, when the British Royal Navy under Lord Horatio Nelson dealt a decisive blow to the forces of Napoleon. The Battle of Trafalgar comes boldly to life in this definitive work that re-creates those five momentous, earsplitting hours with unrivaled detail and intensity.
In the tradition of Antony Beevor's Stalingrad, Nelson's Trafalgar presents the definitive blow-by-blow account of the world's most famous naval battle, when the British Royal Navy under Lord Horatio Nelson dealt a decisive blow to the forces of Napoleon. The Battle of Trafalgar comes boldly to life in this definitive work that re-creates those five momentous, earsplitting hours with unrivaled detail and intensity.
392 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2004
141 people are currently reading
1895 people want to read
About the author
Roy A. Adkins
29 books43 followersRoy Adkins is a historian and archaeologist. He is also a Fellow of the Society of Antiquaries in London.
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October 11, 2025
A Study of Genius
When Admiral Viscount Nelson attacked Pierre Villeneuve’s fleet off the coast of Cadiz on 21/10/1805 it was master stroke in military genius which led to a complete and glorious victory which in turn had long lasting effects of Britain’s battle with Revolutionary and then Napoleonic France. Master Napoleonic maritime historian Roy Adkins has written a compelling and meticulously researched account of this decisive battle: The Battle of Trafalgar. This book is not just a military history; it’s an exploration of the human drama behind the event that shaped the course of European history.
Adkins organises Trafalgar: The Biography of a Battle around the events leading up to, during, and immediately following the battle, providing a comprehensive overview of the context in which Trafalgar took place. The early chapters set the scene by detailing the strategic situation in Europe, the state of the navies, and the personalities of key figures, most notably Nelson, who emerges as the central character in this drama. As the narrative moves into the battle itself, Adkins provides a blow-by-blow account that is both thrilling and informative. He uses firsthand accounts, diaries, and letters from those who fought at Trafalgar to create a gripping, almost cinematic, portrayal of the chaos, bravery, and horror of naval warfare in the Age of Sail. The use of these primary sources is one of the book’s greatest strengths, as it allows readers to experience the battle through the eyes of those who were there. The famous storm which followed the battle is also covered well, understanding the times and the people is so important with history; and aftermath and consequenties are explained. This gives a full round view. The letters and personal stories bring the men to live, from a boy on a ship (the lowest rank) to Nelson himself. This made me proud of their achievements in horrific circumstances and will help to remember these heros.
One of the primary themes of Adkins’ book is the contrast between the strategic brilliance of Nelson and the sheer brutality of naval combat. Adkins doesn’t shy away from describing the gruesome realities of the battle, cannonballs smashing through wooden ships, men being maimed or killed, and the thick, acrid smoke that engulfed the decks. Yet, amid this carnage, he also highlights the discipline, courage, and skill of the sailors who fought under unimaginable conditions. Adkins also delves into the broader significance of the Battle of Trafalgar. He explains how Nelson’s victory not only shattered Napoleon’s plans for an invasion of Britain but also established British naval supremacy for over a century. Sometimes this has been argued that the Battle of Austerlitz soon cancelled this out, however there is no denying the significance of this victory. Britain’s coast line was free from invasion. For me Atkins is able to effectively convey how the outcome of this battle had a far-reaching influence on the balance of power in Europe and the course of world history.
Roy Adkins writes with a clarity and energy that makes Trafalgar accessible to both history enthusiasts and general readers. His ability to interweave personal stories with military strategy ensures that the book appeals to a wide audience. Adkins is particularly adept at explaining complex naval maneuvers and tactics in a way that is easy to understand, even for those who may not be familiar with maritime history. The book’s pace is well balanced, with the tension building as Adkins leads the reader toward the climactic battle. The narrative is enriched by the author’s deep knowledge of the period, and his ability to bring historical figures to life is particularly noteworthy. Nelson, in particular, is portrayed not just as a military genius, but as a deeply human figure with all the strengths and flaws that entails.
Trafalgar: The Biography of a Battle is an exceptional work of history that succeeds in both educating and engaging its readers. Roy Adkins has crafted a narrative that is as much about the people as the battle itself and as such provides that much needed human element to the story. Adkins is interested in the common sailor in the Napoleonic Wars through his book Jack Tar, and this passion shows here in this book. The story is eloquently told, the writing is excellent and the book contained useful diagrams to explain everything. I have read other books on the subject, however I found some of the intricacies of the ship movements and timings tedious. Here Adkins manages to cover all points well and in enough detail to understand what's going on, however I always found myself having to re-read battle descriptions in any book.
When Admiral Viscount Nelson attacked Pierre Villeneuve’s fleet off the coast of Cadiz on 21/10/1805 it was master stroke in military genius which led to a complete and glorious victory which in turn had long lasting effects of Britain’s battle with Revolutionary and then Napoleonic France. Master Napoleonic maritime historian Roy Adkins has written a compelling and meticulously researched account of this decisive battle: The Battle of Trafalgar. This book is not just a military history; it’s an exploration of the human drama behind the event that shaped the course of European history.
Adkins organises Trafalgar: The Biography of a Battle around the events leading up to, during, and immediately following the battle, providing a comprehensive overview of the context in which Trafalgar took place. The early chapters set the scene by detailing the strategic situation in Europe, the state of the navies, and the personalities of key figures, most notably Nelson, who emerges as the central character in this drama. As the narrative moves into the battle itself, Adkins provides a blow-by-blow account that is both thrilling and informative. He uses firsthand accounts, diaries, and letters from those who fought at Trafalgar to create a gripping, almost cinematic, portrayal of the chaos, bravery, and horror of naval warfare in the Age of Sail. The use of these primary sources is one of the book’s greatest strengths, as it allows readers to experience the battle through the eyes of those who were there. The famous storm which followed the battle is also covered well, understanding the times and the people is so important with history; and aftermath and consequenties are explained. This gives a full round view. The letters and personal stories bring the men to live, from a boy on a ship (the lowest rank) to Nelson himself. This made me proud of their achievements in horrific circumstances and will help to remember these heros.
One of the primary themes of Adkins’ book is the contrast between the strategic brilliance of Nelson and the sheer brutality of naval combat. Adkins doesn’t shy away from describing the gruesome realities of the battle, cannonballs smashing through wooden ships, men being maimed or killed, and the thick, acrid smoke that engulfed the decks. Yet, amid this carnage, he also highlights the discipline, courage, and skill of the sailors who fought under unimaginable conditions. Adkins also delves into the broader significance of the Battle of Trafalgar. He explains how Nelson’s victory not only shattered Napoleon’s plans for an invasion of Britain but also established British naval supremacy for over a century. Sometimes this has been argued that the Battle of Austerlitz soon cancelled this out, however there is no denying the significance of this victory. Britain’s coast line was free from invasion. For me Atkins is able to effectively convey how the outcome of this battle had a far-reaching influence on the balance of power in Europe and the course of world history.
Roy Adkins writes with a clarity and energy that makes Trafalgar accessible to both history enthusiasts and general readers. His ability to interweave personal stories with military strategy ensures that the book appeals to a wide audience. Adkins is particularly adept at explaining complex naval maneuvers and tactics in a way that is easy to understand, even for those who may not be familiar with maritime history. The book’s pace is well balanced, with the tension building as Adkins leads the reader toward the climactic battle. The narrative is enriched by the author’s deep knowledge of the period, and his ability to bring historical figures to life is particularly noteworthy. Nelson, in particular, is portrayed not just as a military genius, but as a deeply human figure with all the strengths and flaws that entails.
Trafalgar: The Biography of a Battle is an exceptional work of history that succeeds in both educating and engaging its readers. Roy Adkins has crafted a narrative that is as much about the people as the battle itself and as such provides that much needed human element to the story. Adkins is interested in the common sailor in the Napoleonic Wars through his book Jack Tar, and this passion shows here in this book. The story is eloquently told, the writing is excellent and the book contained useful diagrams to explain everything. I have read other books on the subject, however I found some of the intricacies of the ship movements and timings tedious. Here Adkins manages to cover all points well and in enough detail to understand what's going on, however I always found myself having to re-read battle descriptions in any book.
July 16, 2021
Last year, I read a fantasy book about dragons involved in the fighting the Battle of Trafalgar. I got to thinking that I had no idea if what was depicted in that book was accurate or not (well, except for the dragons). I only knew that Horatio Nelson had been killed. This book contains everything you wanted to know about the Battle of Trafalgar – the ships, captains and crews, the initial strategy, the order of battle, which ships fought each other, and numbers of casualties. It contains detailed maps and drawings that portray the battle at various stages. It also includes a description of the violent storm that occurred immediately afterwards – before any of the ships could find port.
It becomes obvious what a horrible time it must have been for the people on board, including cannons and muskets firing point blank, blood flowing underfoot, masts falling overhead, several ships catching fire. No triage was done. The doctors treated people in first come, first-served order, and people bled to death while waiting. With medicine in such an early stage, amputations proliferated. The author provides a vivid depiction of the carnage.
“On the gun decks of those ships in the midst of the conflict, the sailors were working in a suffocating stench of gunpowder smoke, blood, sweat, and burnt and torn skin…Despite having stripped off their shirts before the battle began, they were almost overpowered by the heat of the guns in the confined space. Many men were snow smoke-blackened and covered with dust, streaked by rivulets of sweat running down their faces and bodies. In the cramped gun decks the noise of the battle could be felt as much as heard: a maddening sensation of pressure on the skull…induced by the deafening noise.”
Adkins does a great job of setting the stage and peppering the text with first-hand accounts. I was surprised to find out there were a few women on board, mostly assisting with munitions and the wounded. It is extremely detailed and is told chronologically. I am unsure if the subtitle is fully proven, but it served the intended purpose. It will appeal to anyone interested in Trafalgar, Horatio Nelson, European history of early 1800s, the Age of Sail, or the Napoleonic Wars.
It becomes obvious what a horrible time it must have been for the people on board, including cannons and muskets firing point blank, blood flowing underfoot, masts falling overhead, several ships catching fire. No triage was done. The doctors treated people in first come, first-served order, and people bled to death while waiting. With medicine in such an early stage, amputations proliferated. The author provides a vivid depiction of the carnage.
“On the gun decks of those ships in the midst of the conflict, the sailors were working in a suffocating stench of gunpowder smoke, blood, sweat, and burnt and torn skin…Despite having stripped off their shirts before the battle began, they were almost overpowered by the heat of the guns in the confined space. Many men were snow smoke-blackened and covered with dust, streaked by rivulets of sweat running down their faces and bodies. In the cramped gun decks the noise of the battle could be felt as much as heard: a maddening sensation of pressure on the skull…induced by the deafening noise.”
Adkins does a great job of setting the stage and peppering the text with first-hand accounts. I was surprised to find out there were a few women on board, mostly assisting with munitions and the wounded. It is extremely detailed and is told chronologically. I am unsure if the subtitle is fully proven, but it served the intended purpose. It will appeal to anyone interested in Trafalgar, Horatio Nelson, European history of early 1800s, the Age of Sail, or the Napoleonic Wars.
July 8, 2014
I found this to be a very good general audience look at the iconic battle of the “Age of Sail”. Mr. Adkins does an excellent job of setting the strategic stage for the battle, mainly Napoleon’s impending invasion of Britain. He follows Nelson as he chases the French Admiral, Villeneuve, from Europe to the West Indies and back to Spain. He goes into the pressure Napoleon put on his navy and the lack of trust Napoleon had in the Admirals and his lack of understanding of the navy in general.
In looking at the battle specifically, Mr. Adkins uses firsthand accounts very well. He tells the story from both sides and from the lowest tar on the gun deck to the officers on the quarter decks. The reader can almost hear and feel the roar of the guns and the screams of the wounded. He tells the tale of Nelson’s death and debunks some of the legends that have arisen about his death. His account of the HMS Royal Sovereign’s approach to the French Fleet is well done. It was under fire for more than 15 minutes before it could return fire. He discusses the difference in philosophy between the French/Spanish and the British fleets in targeting and how this allowed the British to approach the French line relatively undamaged.
This is not just a story of the battle, but a look at the lives of the men and women who manned the ships. From the lowliest tar to Nelson himself, the author does a good job of telling their story. The author does make clear that there were many women on the ships of the Royal Navy who actively played a role in the battle. They were the wives of Marines and mates, maybe 10 or 15 per ship. They were not shrinking violets when the battle was joined. They helped in the ship’s magazines, in the cockpit with surgeons and in some cases actually help man the guns.
He also looks at how those manning the ships lived. From how they were recruited/drafted, their duties and training, what they ate and in general how they lived. It was not a comfortable life, but he makes the point of saying that the life a day laborer on land was not that great either. A tar in the British Navy made about as much as a day laborer and didn’t have to worry about clothes, food or a place to sleep. That said their lives were not easy. The food was often poor and shore leave was almost non-existent, even for the officers. Mr. Adkins states the Nelson’s second in command, Admiral Collingswood, spent the last 5 yrs of his life aboard ship not touching land. Nelson himself spent the two yrs leading up to the battle on the Victory with almost no shore leave.
After the battle, Mr. Adkin’s telling of the great hurricane is also well done. I hadn’t realized that the great storm greatly hampered the British in getting there prizes back to Gibraltar. Of the 17 ships taken by the British only 4 successfully made it to port.
The author has provides good maps in showing the positions of the ships during the various stages of the battle and the sea around the Cape of Trafalgar.
I think this is a solid 4 star read.
In looking at the battle specifically, Mr. Adkins uses firsthand accounts very well. He tells the story from both sides and from the lowest tar on the gun deck to the officers on the quarter decks. The reader can almost hear and feel the roar of the guns and the screams of the wounded. He tells the tale of Nelson’s death and debunks some of the legends that have arisen about his death. His account of the HMS Royal Sovereign’s approach to the French Fleet is well done. It was under fire for more than 15 minutes before it could return fire. He discusses the difference in philosophy between the French/Spanish and the British fleets in targeting and how this allowed the British to approach the French line relatively undamaged.
This is not just a story of the battle, but a look at the lives of the men and women who manned the ships. From the lowliest tar to Nelson himself, the author does a good job of telling their story. The author does make clear that there were many women on the ships of the Royal Navy who actively played a role in the battle. They were the wives of Marines and mates, maybe 10 or 15 per ship. They were not shrinking violets when the battle was joined. They helped in the ship’s magazines, in the cockpit with surgeons and in some cases actually help man the guns.
He also looks at how those manning the ships lived. From how they were recruited/drafted, their duties and training, what they ate and in general how they lived. It was not a comfortable life, but he makes the point of saying that the life a day laborer on land was not that great either. A tar in the British Navy made about as much as a day laborer and didn’t have to worry about clothes, food or a place to sleep. That said their lives were not easy. The food was often poor and shore leave was almost non-existent, even for the officers. Mr. Adkins states the Nelson’s second in command, Admiral Collingswood, spent the last 5 yrs of his life aboard ship not touching land. Nelson himself spent the two yrs leading up to the battle on the Victory with almost no shore leave.
After the battle, Mr. Adkin’s telling of the great hurricane is also well done. I hadn’t realized that the great storm greatly hampered the British in getting there prizes back to Gibraltar. Of the 17 ships taken by the British only 4 successfully made it to port.
The author has provides good maps in showing the positions of the ships during the various stages of the battle and the sea around the Cape of Trafalgar.
I think this is a solid 4 star read.
June 23, 2014
This is an excellent introduction to the Battle of Trafalgar and I am giving it 3 Stars. The battle scenes are just terrific with good "maps" of the ship positions at various times of the battle. I thoroughly appreciated the many original letters and accounts used to tell the story. The roar of cannon, the terrible damage wrought on ships and men, the confusion, the unorthodox tactics used by Nelson and many other aspects of this battle are clearly depicted. This was my first exposure to this famous battle as I spend time this year to finally become familiar with the Napoleonic Era. I was completely unaware that a hurricane struck the battered ships shortly after the end of the fighting and was the cause of more destruction than the battle itself.
I took away a 4th star because his thesis that we would all be speaking French if the British had not won is not well supported IMHO. That said, I heartily recommend this one if you are looking for an excellent intro to this last major battle between sailing ships.
I took away a 4th star because his thesis that we would all be speaking French if the British had not won is not well supported IMHO. That said, I heartily recommend this one if you are looking for an excellent intro to this last major battle between sailing ships.
July 5, 2010
Excellent Read! You can hear the roar of the cannon, feel the concusive forces of strikes and smell the gun powder fill the air.
October 21, 1805 "The first broadside of the Royal Sovereign against the Santa Ana put fourteen guns of the Spanish ship out of action and killed or wounded many of the crew. The broadside had sent over one hundred cannon-balls plus grape shot and nearly 1 1/2 ton of scorching hot iron- ripping its way the whole length of the gun decks of the Santa Ana."
The statistics of carnage was grizzly. The Britsh sank or captured 23/33 enemy ships. Without the loss of one ship. The overall death rate was 10% and wounded 8% for the British.
Trafalgar was the last battle of sailing ships. It prevented the invasion of England by Napoleon.
Adkins does a great job explaining the mecanics and language of sailing and 17-18 century warfare. For me it has provided a view of how the English empire was built and how pivoital history was during the first decade of the 1800 th century.
Run like smoke and oak to find this book; and read. KGA
October 21, 1805 "The first broadside of the Royal Sovereign against the Santa Ana put fourteen guns of the Spanish ship out of action and killed or wounded many of the crew. The broadside had sent over one hundred cannon-balls plus grape shot and nearly 1 1/2 ton of scorching hot iron- ripping its way the whole length of the gun decks of the Santa Ana."
The statistics of carnage was grizzly. The Britsh sank or captured 23/33 enemy ships. Without the loss of one ship. The overall death rate was 10% and wounded 8% for the British.
Trafalgar was the last battle of sailing ships. It prevented the invasion of England by Napoleon.
Adkins does a great job explaining the mecanics and language of sailing and 17-18 century warfare. For me it has provided a view of how the English empire was built and how pivoital history was during the first decade of the 1800 th century.
Run like smoke and oak to find this book; and read. KGA
August 23, 2016
A superb book. It not only details the battle itself quite thoroughly, but also what the sailors, the captains, Nelson and everyone involved in it had to deal with before, during, after, and even, for those that survived, the end of their lives.
Every detail is worth noticing, and for me most gratifying was to read that one of my countrymen, a brazilian, was a crew member in no other ship but the HMS Victory at Trafalgar! Why was he there? what was his life story? was he press ganged? etc etc.. So many questions i have now of that person's history. (though obviously that wasnt detailed in this book, because it was just a glimpse at the nationalities of the HMS Victory crew at the time).
For the battle of Trafalgar, i felt this book suffices as that one you must read, and you will not end it feeling like a lot was missing on the descriptions and detailing the battle itself.
Every detail is worth noticing, and for me most gratifying was to read that one of my countrymen, a brazilian, was a crew member in no other ship but the HMS Victory at Trafalgar! Why was he there? what was his life story? was he press ganged? etc etc.. So many questions i have now of that person's history. (though obviously that wasnt detailed in this book, because it was just a glimpse at the nationalities of the HMS Victory crew at the time).
For the battle of Trafalgar, i felt this book suffices as that one you must read, and you will not end it feeling like a lot was missing on the descriptions and detailing the battle itself.
December 11, 2009
Roy Adkins' book, "Nelson's Trafalgar," is a detailed well rendered version of the great sea battle that doomed any chance for Napoleon to claim control over the seas and invade Britain.
The book is a blow by blow account of the planning for the battle and how the plans for each fleet--the English fleet and the Combined fleet of France and Spain--were implemented. Nelson's battle plan was to break the line of ships organized by the French commanding admiral, Villeneuve. The French admiral wanted to maintain his line and have a "mobile reserve" of ships at his disposal. His dispositions went awry and his battle plan never materialized.
The book presents a number of attractive features: (a) detailed battle maps from hour to hour, so that the reader can see the progression of the battle; (b) a listing of the ships of each fleet, including number of cannons and commanding officers; (c) a detailed description of weapons and ships of the two fleets, to provide important context; (d) a description of key figures on each side; (e) excerpts from personal recollections by key actors in the battle; (f) extraordinary detail of the battle itself, including small details.
The book also speaks of the aftereffects of the battle. Included is the possible murder of the failed French commander, Villeneuve, the cheapness of the English government in taking care of its brave victors (including ignoring Nelson's request that Emma Hamilton and his daughter be taken care of), the dominant role of the English navy after Trafalgar.
This is a book that readers with an interest in this dramatic battle will find valuable. The detail gives a sense of the actual events of the time.
The book is a blow by blow account of the planning for the battle and how the plans for each fleet--the English fleet and the Combined fleet of France and Spain--were implemented. Nelson's battle plan was to break the line of ships organized by the French commanding admiral, Villeneuve. The French admiral wanted to maintain his line and have a "mobile reserve" of ships at his disposal. His dispositions went awry and his battle plan never materialized.
The book presents a number of attractive features: (a) detailed battle maps from hour to hour, so that the reader can see the progression of the battle; (b) a listing of the ships of each fleet, including number of cannons and commanding officers; (c) a detailed description of weapons and ships of the two fleets, to provide important context; (d) a description of key figures on each side; (e) excerpts from personal recollections by key actors in the battle; (f) extraordinary detail of the battle itself, including small details.
The book also speaks of the aftereffects of the battle. Included is the possible murder of the failed French commander, Villeneuve, the cheapness of the English government in taking care of its brave victors (including ignoring Nelson's request that Emma Hamilton and his daughter be taken care of), the dominant role of the English navy after Trafalgar.
This is a book that readers with an interest in this dramatic battle will find valuable. The detail gives a sense of the actual events of the time.
January 2, 2016
A very good book--though not "the equal of Antony Beevor's Stalingrad" as the back cover claims.
I think actually what would have improved this to a 5 star rating would be if each chapter focused on the dueling ships in the battle, which is sort of does, but not cohesively. For example, chapters or minisections on just Santa Ana vs. Royal Sovereign, Belleisle vs. Fougueux, etc. Probably more my fault, and I guess it does reflect the general pell-mell of the battle, but by skipping from action from ship to ship, I had to keep referring to the maps to get things clear in my head. Though since this battle was one or two ships slugging it out against each other, I think would have made the book more absorbing.
Either way though, excellent book, chock full of interesting facts. Thought it very interesting after reading Seize the Fire, that the French concept of honor wasn't much different than the British. If Admiral Dumanoir hadn't rather cravenly ignored Villeneuve's orders, than the battle could have gone differently (English probably still would have won) or if the French focused their fire not on the masts but on the lower decks like the English, also a different outcome.
I feel very bad for poor Villeneuve and want to know more about his "suicide" (aka murder by Napoleon, since his body was found in a locked room with a probably forged suicide note with six implausible stab wounds).
I think actually what would have improved this to a 5 star rating would be if each chapter focused on the dueling ships in the battle, which is sort of does, but not cohesively. For example, chapters or minisections on just Santa Ana vs. Royal Sovereign, Belleisle vs. Fougueux, etc. Probably more my fault, and I guess it does reflect the general pell-mell of the battle, but by skipping from action from ship to ship, I had to keep referring to the maps to get things clear in my head. Though since this battle was one or two ships slugging it out against each other, I think would have made the book more absorbing.
Either way though, excellent book, chock full of interesting facts. Thought it very interesting after reading Seize the Fire, that the French concept of honor wasn't much different than the British. If Admiral Dumanoir hadn't rather cravenly ignored Villeneuve's orders, than the battle could have gone differently (English probably still would have won) or if the French focused their fire not on the masts but on the lower decks like the English, also a different outcome.
I feel very bad for poor Villeneuve and want to know more about his "suicide" (aka murder by Napoleon, since his body was found in a locked room with a probably forged suicide note with six implausible stab wounds).
February 5, 2017
Excellent discussion of everything related to the battle and Lord Nelson: the people, the ships, the politics, the fighting. Battles fought at sea seem so horrific in our time, I suppose I can only just imagine what it was like from the description. A good read for those interested in the history of this battle and Nelson.
November 22, 2021
Thoroughly researched, extraordinarily written. The process of studying the material in this book is very pleasing. I get bored with Naval history sometimes, especially after reading Schom’s book. Nevertheless, Adkins established the Trafalgar battle as something incredibly fascinating, as I rushed through the book — that’s how good it was. Do not hesitate to read this book, especially if you are doing a research: it helped me both with Trafalgar and Rear-Admiral Dumanoir.
June 26, 2018
Adkins gives an entertaining and thorough look at the Battle of Trafalgar in this excellent book. He starts by exploring the context of the battle and the realities of the navies that fought. Before he gets to explaining the battle itself, I had already learned a vast amount of information about the navies of that time, from the habits of the sailors, to the moldy food, to the ships themselves, and more!
When describing the battle and its aftermath, Adkins clearly explains the tactics and the individual battles that occurred between pairs and trios of ships. I never felt lost or confused when reading about the battle itself. Moreover, he balances the distanced view of the battle with the terrible realities of what the men experienced. There are plenty of excerpts from memoirs that give the reader a taste of what the battle was like, or as much as we can imagine about it.
Overall, this book is outstanding. The writing is clear, vivid, and entertaining, and the content is thorough and clear. If you want to learn about this momentous event, then look no further.
When describing the battle and its aftermath, Adkins clearly explains the tactics and the individual battles that occurred between pairs and trios of ships. I never felt lost or confused when reading about the battle itself. Moreover, he balances the distanced view of the battle with the terrible realities of what the men experienced. There are plenty of excerpts from memoirs that give the reader a taste of what the battle was like, or as much as we can imagine about it.
Overall, this book is outstanding. The writing is clear, vivid, and entertaining, and the content is thorough and clear. If you want to learn about this momentous event, then look no further.
August 25, 2014
Roy Adkinsin "Trafalgar: The Biography of a Battle" (Abacus, 2005) on kiinnostava tietokirja lokakuussa 1805 käydystä Trafalgarin taistelusta, jossa Nelsonin johtamat britit antoivat pataan ranskalais-espanjalaiselle laivastolle. Se oli myös viimeinen suuri meritaistelu purjelaivojen aikakaudella.
Adkins käsittelee paitsi itse sotatoimia, myös ylipäätään elämää laivastossa 1800-luvun alkupuolella. Lukijalle tarjoillaan niin tanakka historiallinen katsaus aiheeseen kuin paljon kiinnostavia anekdootteja, joista osa kerrotaan aikalaislähteitä lainaten.
Lukija saa aiheeseen niin tanakan historiallisen yleiskatsauksen kuin kiinnostavia anekdoottejakin, joista osa kerrotaan aikalaislahteiden kautta. Lukukokemusta saattoi hieman varjostaa vaikeaselkoinen merisanasto, joka ei aina ehkä auennut parhaalla mahdollisella tavalla.
Adkins käsittelee paitsi itse sotatoimia, myös ylipäätään elämää laivastossa 1800-luvun alkupuolella. Lukijalle tarjoillaan niin tanakka historiallinen katsaus aiheeseen kuin paljon kiinnostavia anekdootteja, joista osa kerrotaan aikalaislähteitä lainaten.
Lukija saa aiheeseen niin tanakan historiallisen yleiskatsauksen kuin kiinnostavia anekdoottejakin, joista osa kerrotaan aikalaislahteiden kautta. Lukukokemusta saattoi hieman varjostaa vaikeaselkoinen merisanasto, joka ei aina ehkä auennut parhaalla mahdollisella tavalla.
July 31, 2016
I bought this book as it has a reference to Jane Austen's brother, Admiral Francis Austen, and just started to browse the first few pages but then could not put it down. This book is definitely not for the squeamish as some of the descriptions are quite graphic, but if you want a sense of what it was like on board the ships during this period it is absolutely necessary. The blood and gore is, however, tempered with a great deal of humour and Roy Adkins style makes history very readable. I particularly enjoyed learning the origins of many terms we use today such as 'being on the fiddle'.
At the beginning I found the battle maps quite confusing but soon I was referring to them on a regular basis to get a feel of where all the ships were at a given time.
I now feel far better informed about what was a pivotal moment in our history and thoroughly enjoyed the ride!
At the beginning I found the battle maps quite confusing but soon I was referring to them on a regular basis to get a feel of where all the ships were at a given time.
I now feel far better informed about what was a pivotal moment in our history and thoroughly enjoyed the ride!
September 17, 2010
Very interesting description of the the role and living conditions of the sailors as well as the conditions of the ships. I wish he would have cut down on the number of straight quotations during the description of the battle, but it was a very interesting book overall. This was a great shot of reality after having been tainted by the fake Hollywood sea fights. A very fun read after visiting London last year; Nelson's column was my favorite sight.
July 28, 2023
This was an odd choice for me, I have to admit. Well, not the naval history nor necessarily the British navy, but it is quite early. I'm not especially interested in the 18th and 19th centuries and wooden ships are not especially interested for me. But, well, Trafalgar is Trafalgar, so I thought I'd try.
Adkin's book is an exciting read, based as it is both on the official reports of the battle and its leadup, but also on journals and an excellent understanding of the social history of the era. In fact, I'd say that the latter was the most interesting for me because Adkins does a really good job in giving a sense of what it was like on these wooden men-of-war, from basic living conditions to how they are fought. The result is a book which isn't just an account of a rather messy battle, but giving a vivid sense of warfare in this age (which, like any warfare, is horrific in its own particular way).
And, of course, Nelson looms large over the narrative. One can't really escape Nelson, of course, at Trafalgar and it was interesting to have a look at his biography again. I'm not sure Adkins fully makes Nelson feel human-there is still a lot of idolizing to cut through in the sources. But the picture is more 3D than most treatments.
This is a fascinating book of a fascinating episode in the history of European imperialisms. Trafalgar is still an icon for the British and still studied because of that. This book is a good contribution to that study.
Adkin's book is an exciting read, based as it is both on the official reports of the battle and its leadup, but also on journals and an excellent understanding of the social history of the era. In fact, I'd say that the latter was the most interesting for me because Adkins does a really good job in giving a sense of what it was like on these wooden men-of-war, from basic living conditions to how they are fought. The result is a book which isn't just an account of a rather messy battle, but giving a vivid sense of warfare in this age (which, like any warfare, is horrific in its own particular way).
And, of course, Nelson looms large over the narrative. One can't really escape Nelson, of course, at Trafalgar and it was interesting to have a look at his biography again. I'm not sure Adkins fully makes Nelson feel human-there is still a lot of idolizing to cut through in the sources. But the picture is more 3D than most treatments.
This is a fascinating book of a fascinating episode in the history of European imperialisms. Trafalgar is still an icon for the British and still studied because of that. This book is a good contribution to that study.
November 18, 2018
The first two-thirds of the book deals with the runup to Trafalgar and the battle itself. The build-up is very interesting and provides some insights into Nelson, though I would have liked more. The description of the battle is very detailed and actually a bit riveting. Where the book falls short is the events after the battle. The hurricane descriptions are nice but then I feel it gets really bogged down in individual accounts that are frankly a bit boring. I had trouble getting through the last hundred pages and it took me much longer to finish than normal simply because I wasn't that interested. The last chapter redeems a bit with some interesting analysis of the impact of Trafalgar on the Napoleonic Wars and the British Empire. Would recommend, but maybe skill a few of the late chapters.
April 21, 2018
Roy Adkins of course explains here the leading to and then consequences of such a battle. Relying on the numerous and contradictory testimonies such an event left, he most importantly gives an insight into its frightful brutality, the violence of an enormous clash where heroism and ridicule went hand in hand and which involved more than 47,000 men and about 60 ships!
Beyond, this 'Trafalgar' also is fascinating for its asides -the author taking time to describe sailors' daily lives while onboard. There is a lot to learn, from hygiene conditions to brutal discipline and, the (in)famous press-gangs to medical practices (e.g. crude surgeries) of the time.
Woving the little stories with the Big History, here's indeed a fascinating account to read avidly.
Beyond, this 'Trafalgar' also is fascinating for its asides -the author taking time to describe sailors' daily lives while onboard. There is a lot to learn, from hygiene conditions to brutal discipline and, the (in)famous press-gangs to medical practices (e.g. crude surgeries) of the time.
Woving the little stories with the Big History, here's indeed a fascinating account to read avidly.
August 26, 2018
A very good tale of the Battle of Trafalgar. It tells the events leading up to the battle. The major players on the English, French and Spanish sides. The sequence of the battle, as it can be best told and the aftermath. It also gives nice descriptions of what happened on individual ships. He also gives specific descriptions and blow by blow accounts of how a gun crew on a warship operated. What the surgeons did, were women really on board and what were there duties. Good read.
August 15, 2025
Adkins gives a comprehensive historical account of the Battle of Trafalgar and how it altered the course of history. He sets the stage of world events leading up to the fighting and unleashes a blow-by-blow account of the battle itself. Most interesting is the supplemental anecdotes that shed light on naval warfare of the age and the plight of the sailor. If you ever wondered why Horatio Nelson is still honored more than two centuries after this victory, this read gives the utmost clarity.
September 20, 2023
My knowledge of the Napoleonic affairs is limited due to time and not interest but a friend gave this book to me a few years ago and I finally read it. While it was interesting it was not groundbreaking in any way and pretty spent 350 pages going through all the aspects of the battle that could be gone through. While I am used to this in WW2 battles the difference in complexity between the two settings made this interesting but long and sometimes mundane.
This battle that the British have turned into a legend is first of all not very impressive. The French and Spanish strike me as foolish and incompetent. Hence the victory or the scale is not surprising but seems expected once one knows the parts involved.
The battle did aid the British in increasing the Empire substantially.
The term "three square meals a day" comes from this period where the selling point of joining was sailors would get three meals on square dishes a day.
Slush fund comes from the the cooks cooking greasy meat and scraping the fat off the top. Half would be used to cover the sails and ropes and half could be sold by the cook to tallow makers and the money be saved in a slush fund.
This battle that the British have turned into a legend is first of all not very impressive. The French and Spanish strike me as foolish and incompetent. Hence the victory or the scale is not surprising but seems expected once one knows the parts involved.
The battle did aid the British in increasing the Empire substantially.
The term "three square meals a day" comes from this period where the selling point of joining was sailors would get three meals on square dishes a day.
Slush fund comes from the the cooks cooking greasy meat and scraping the fat off the top. Half would be used to cover the sails and ropes and half could be sold by the cook to tallow makers and the money be saved in a slush fund.
July 7, 2009
I really enjoyed the first half of this, which taught me a ton about the political and military events that led up to the Battle. I also learned a bunch about life aboard a fighting ship back then... unhappy times, it seems, but in many ways no more miserable than being ashore. The author also talks a lot about the differences between the readiness of the British and French/Spanish crew and officers. The British had a ton of advantages going in, although they were outnumbered and outgunned on paper.
By the time the battle actually starts, it's pretty much a foregone conclusion that it's going to be a slaughter. I skimmed through the last few chapters, which are a play-by-play of the 4-5 hour fight... it seemed pretty tedious and hard to follow. Not my cup of tea.
But the first few chapters of the book are excellent, totally worth reading.
By the time the battle actually starts, it's pretty much a foregone conclusion that it's going to be a slaughter. I skimmed through the last few chapters, which are a play-by-play of the 4-5 hour fight... it seemed pretty tedious and hard to follow. Not my cup of tea.
But the first few chapters of the book are excellent, totally worth reading.
November 24, 2011
This was a superb book, a biography of a famous battle, the story of the men (and women) who fought it and their ships. Adkins effectively weaves personal accounts of the battle with historical analysis as well as his own insights.
Ordinarily I don't like to read books of military strategy but Nelson's Trafalgar is so much more than that. It's the telling detail that bring it to life, the individual accounts and the author's knowledge of life aboard a ship-of-the-line.
If I were to only ever read one nonfiction book about the Napoleanic wars at sea, this would be the one.
Ordinarily I don't like to read books of military strategy but Nelson's Trafalgar is so much more than that. It's the telling detail that bring it to life, the individual accounts and the author's knowledge of life aboard a ship-of-the-line.
If I were to only ever read one nonfiction book about the Napoleanic wars at sea, this would be the one.
May 22, 2020
This is a masterful account of the Battle of Trafalgar. Roy Adkins is able to present naval warfare in a way that first-time readers of the subject will understand, and does so without overwhelming such an audience with an expansive glossary or lengthy footnotes. More experienced (perhaps even academic) readers shouldn't mistake this for the Beginner's Guide to Trafalgar, as I believe that more advanced audiences will strongly appreciate the abundance of primary sources Adkins employs in his account.
February 11, 2017
Nelson's Trafalgar does what good history novels do: it identifies a (often obscure) historical event, piques your interest, and shows you its significance in context and in retrospect. I thoroughly enjoyed the balance of relevant detail, and tangential trivia that the author employed in telling the story, and I recommend the book to anyone interested in the world often forgotten between America's war for independence and the war of 1812.
August 28, 2020
First book I have read by the author Roy Adkins, and won’t be the last, in depth easy read about the battle of Trafalgar everything you want to know about the famous battle and more, accounts from the men who fought in the conflict as well as our own also the French and Spanish, graphic detail of the horrendous injuries sustained by all, as well as the last moments from our iconic and much loved hero Lord Nelson, I highly recommend this book hence the five stars.
June 10, 2008
Bought this after reading the review by Squirrel.
It's excellent... maybe even better than Sqirrel claimed.
As the man said... it read so well that it was like a historical fiction, rather than a historcal account.
I am lost to find the right superlatives... try this book... it's well worth it.
It's excellent... maybe even better than Sqirrel claimed.
As the man said... it read so well that it was like a historical fiction, rather than a historcal account.
I am lost to find the right superlatives... try this book... it's well worth it.
January 27, 2012
An excellent recounting of the battle which had such a tremendous impact upon world history which includes an in-depth portrait of Lord Nelson whose death made the triumph so bittersweet to the British. The author relies upon a tremendous volume of eyewitness accounts from the actual officers and seamen who fought the battle for the British as well as French and Spanish forces.
March 7, 2010
One of the most fascinating history books I have ever read. Not only a play by play of the battle and its consequences, but an incredibly detailed look at the life aboard a man-o-war. Very entertaining and easy to read. Anyone could pick this up and enjoy it.
September 19, 2013
I was disappointed by the repetition and extensive quotes of original letters and documents. I would have rather read a more strategic analysis more in line with some of the current histories that have become popular. The reproduction of period documents didn't add to my enjoyment.
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December 13, 2008Well written and lively account of a truly epic moment in history.
Ryan
Ryan
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