1797: Nelson's Year of Destiny

by Colin White

White, Colin, 1797: Nelson's Year of Destiny

176 pages, Paperback

First published February 1, 1998

Reviews

[Olivier Goossens · Rating 4 out of 5]

A very enjoyable read on the events of 1797 which played a crucial role in the life of Lord Nelson and his rise to fame. The late Colin White did an outstanding job presenting a refreshing account on the two events around which the book is centred: the Battle of Cape St. Vincent and the attack on Santa Cruz de Tenerife and their importance in Nelson's life. By involving Spanish sources he gives a more balanced narrative on two naval encounters which have been the stuff of legend and patriotic exaggeration. Furthermore, he gives special attention to certain figures whose actions have been unjustly obscured by the magnitude of Nelson's persona. Colin White also puts much focus on certain Nelsonian legends and seeks to uncover the reality behind them. Some passages on the manoeuvres during the battle contain nautical terminology which might puzzle the layman, but White's subtle, easy-going narrative skills as well as the accompaniment of clear and understandable illustrations of the movements, render this unproblematic.

[Poet Felon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great read. Full of small details about events broader history books generalize.

[Sally · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent book detailing Nelson's achievements in the year 1796 / 97. Written with a great eye for detail and with a great sense of the excitement and danger of the times. The narrative provides an excellent insight into the workings of Nelson's command, and includes examination of new evidence from the Spanish side, which has gone some way to addressing some controversies and disagreements about the sequences of some events, and whether Nelson disobeyed orders at the Battle of Cape St Vincent. It also puts Nelson's approach and indivisualism into tactical, strategic and naval context.