The first class ship H.M.S. Victory was launched on May 7 1765. It played an important part in the English fleet from 1778 to 1812 and built its reputation in the important battles at Ushant (1781) and San Vicente (1797). But it was October 21 1805 at the Cape of Trafalgar where under the command of Admiral Nelson this fabulous ship brought victory to the English fleet over the Spanish French armada. The battle of Trafalgar whose bicentenary will be October 21 2005 marked the climax and supremacy of the Royal Navy when H.M.S. Victory made history. As a museum since 1992 the Victory can be seen and admired in the Royal Navy port in Portsmouth. (England)
