The Nile: Napoleon is not invincible

In April 1798 Nelson, on Vanguard, sailed for the Mediterranean to find and attack Napoleon's fleet.

On the afternoon of August 1 the search ended: the enemy had been sighted in Aboukir Bay, near Alexandria.

Nelson's captains, his 'band of brothers' knew what was expected. The enemy ships were anchored in what they thought was an impregnable position, in shallow water.

5.40pm: Nelson signalled for close action.

6.30pm: Captain Foley of the Goliath - leading the attack - had a flash of inspiration. He was to attack from the seaward side, but under heavy fire as he approached, he saw there was room to pass around the head of the enemy and attack from inshore. Four ships followed.
The French were unprepared for such an action - and were outflanked. Nelson continued on the seaward side, and the French ships were blasted from both sides.

10pm: The French flagship, L'Orient, exploded as Nelson was being treated for a head wound. The fighting went on into the night, and when morning broke it was upon devastation unique in the annals of sea warfare. "Victory is not a name strong enough for such a scene," said Nelson. Of 17 French ships, four escaped. The rest were smoking hulks, sunk or held as prizes.

The news was of world consequence. For the first time, Napoleon had been dealt a reverse. He was not invincible.

King George III made Nelson a peer: he was now Lord Nelson of the Nile and Burnham Thorpe.

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