OSHER 440 - Walls of Oak: Britain's Royal Navy Against Napoleon

From 1798 to 1815, only Britain's Royal Navy stood between the armies of Napoleon and his allies and the British shore. Engaging in large fleet battles like that of the Nile and Trafalgar and single ship duels, the Royal Navy grew to its peak of efficiency and power. Led by men such as Nelson, Cochrane, and Sir Sydney Smith, the seaman and marines covered the globe to protect Britain's sea lines for her armies in the field and prevent Napoleon's ships from going to sea in support of his colonial aims. Learn about the organization of the Royal Navy and the French and Spanish navies of 1798-1815. Encounter officers and men, the ships they sailed in, and the battles they fought.