Vice-Admiral's undress coat, worn by Nelson (1758-1805) at the Battle of Trafalgar, made before 1805. Repro ID: F2160-1 ©National Maritime Museum, Greenwich, London, Greenwich Hospital CollectionNelson was hit by a musket ball, fired from high up in the French ship, Redoubtable, at about 13.15. It struck him on the left shoulder, passed through his lung and broke his spine.

In great pain, Nelson was carried down to the cockpit, where Beatty, the surgeon, attended to him. Hardy visited twice, updating Nelson on the progress of the battle.

As Nelson's condition worsened, he asked Hardy to look after Emma Hamilton and to kiss him. His last words were, 'Thank God I have done my duty'. He died about 16.30, knowing that victory had been won.

News of the battle reached London on 6 November. The victory was bittersweet. The joy felt at the defeat of the French and Spanish was tempered by the devastating loss of Nelson. Rather than being buried at sea, his body was returned to Britain on board the Victory, preserved in a barrel of brandy.

Aftermath >>