The Enemy at Trafalgar: Eye-Witness Narratives, Dispatches and Letters from the French and Spanish Fleets

by Edward Fraser

In the century since this book was first published much has been written about the greatest sea battle of the age of sail, but very little of it in English is from the perspective of the defeated. This gives the work an enduring value to all but those with access to French and Spanish naval archives. Edward Fraser, an experienced writer on naval subjects, compiled and translated a collection of official dispatches and personal accounts by the participants, weaving his first-hand material into a vivid and eminently readable continuous narrative. This takes the story from Napoleon's strategic intentions for the Combined Fleets, through the events while it was blockaded at Cadiz, to the details of the battle itself, the storm which followed, and the terrible aftermath for victors and vanquished alike. Largely drawn from French and Spanish sources, the unusual illustrations range from contemporary portraits and seascapes to detailed maps of the action as seen from the Franco-Spanish side. Originally published to celebrate the centenary of the Battle of Trafalgar, this book is now fittingly reissued on the approach of the bicentenary.

436 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 2006

Reviews

[Betsy · Rating 3 out of 5]

Since this book was first published in the early 20th century, it has a different feel about it, partly because there are long untranslated passages of French when it was more common to do so. On the whole it does a good job in looking at the heroic efforts on the Combined Fleets of France and Spain at Trafalgar. Fraser obviously admired Villeneuve who was put in a difficult spot by Napoleon. Their ships and men were not ready to take on the more experienced British fleet, however, he had little choice.

Fraser looks at the fight put up by each ship of the Combined Fleet and their leadership in some detail. There are also some interesting stories about the lesser known individuals who participated in the great battle, which are entertaining. I also learned more about the Spanish effort than I had known before.

The fate of many of the French prisoners is rather sad since Napoleon would not exchange them so they were forced to wait until 1814 for freedom.

[Alex Hope · Rating 4 out of 5]

a rare, superb and unique account on the battle of Trafalgar. Will recommend to anyone studying Spanish/French admirals. This book gave a lot of info about Rear Admiral Dumanoir Le Pelley, thus I am very satisfied that my professor gave it to me.

[Michael Eklund · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is not a new book, the information about the book says nothing about its first publishing date, but you deduct after a while when you are reading it, first publishing date is 1906.

Some rather blurry maps, some untranslated French but otherwise very interesting. With reports and memories from the French/Spanish side, which is rare.

Lots of small stories, from reports about incredible bravery and endurance of fighting ships to British prize crews totally drunk on a taken French ship.

But was most amazed me is the politeness. As soon as the guns are silent, they suddenly are total gentlemen on both sides!

Despite its age, well worth reading.

[Irwin · Rating 3 out of 5]

Great Except the Language Barrier

I've wanted to read this book for years and glad I finally got the chance! The research and the many voices heard were amazing. The telling of the battle and aftermath were excellent.
My only issue was many of the most important speeches and reports were in French or Spanish without translations. I admit in 1905 many Britishers were well versed in these languages, but hopefully the text will be modernized some day!