Nelson

This is coolbert.

Of course, the most famous British naval officer of all time is Horatio Nelson. Nelson of Copenhagen, Nelson of the Nile, Nelson of Trafalgar. It was because of the extraordinary abilities and leadership of Nelson that Britain ruled the waves. By defeating the fleets of Napoleon twice [Trafalgar was a victory over the combined Spanish and French fleet], Nelson made it possible for the nineteenth century to be a British century, a Pax Brittania if you like.

Nelson was a commander of extraordinary leadership ability. A man NOT of imposing stature but a man who exercised command while missing one arm and one eye. A man and commander that had earned the respect and admiration of the lower rankers.

Nelson was also a commander that was down right insubordinate and disobedient, as he saw fit. Went against orders and the rules of naval warfare as they existed. Was victorious in his three major sea battles, and merits the rank of "Great Captain". Is the only naval officer to merit this rank!! And is the only "Great Captain" other than Alexander the Great who was undefeated in his career!!

[for a definition of a "Great Captain", such superlatives as, "single purpose and ruthless, driving energy", "bulldog tenacity and his imperturbability", "loved and respected by his men", "commanded men through respect and admiration rather than fear", apply. The "Great Captains" number very few. In recent history, Wellington, Napoleon, Grant, and Lee from the nineteenth century are considered to be "Great Captains". If you are not in their league, you are not a "Great Captain".]

As previously mentioned, Nelson tended to be insubordinate, even disobedient when it came to battle.

"As a commander he was known for bold action, and the occasional disregard of orders from his seniors. This defiance brought him victories against the Spanish off Cape Vincent in 1797, and at the Battle of Copenhagen four years later, where he ignored orders to cease action by putting his telescope to his blind eye and claiming he couldn't see the signal."

Normally this sort of behavior, insubordination and disobedience, would bring courts martial, demotion or cashiering, even hanging. Nelson, however, by brilliant and well thought out tactics, tactics that were innovative and daring, was always victorious. The adage, "you can't argue with success" is quite true. Rather than being punished, Nelson was rewarded for his fighting abilities and daring.

[in the modern era, the behavior of Ariel Sharon as an Israeli General seems to mirror that of Nelson's insubordination and disobedience, and yet, not punishment, but rather vindication and success!!].

coolbert.