609. Nelson: The Gathering Storm (Part 2)

In this episode of "The Rest Is History," Dominic Sandbrook and Tom delve into the complex period of Admiral Nelson's life following the Battle of the Nile. They discuss Nelson's controversial choices, including his affair with Emma Hamilton and the criticisms he faced for his behavior in Naples and Palermo. The hosts debate whether Nelson's strategic decisions were compromised by his personal life, examining the perspectives of his contemporaries and biographers. They also explore the political context of the time, including the formation of the League of Armed Neutrality and the threat it posed to Britain. The episode concludes with Nelson's return to naval action, setting the stage for the Battle of Copenhagen, while his personal life continues to be in turmoil with his estrangement from his wife Fanny.