Horatio Nelson, 1st Viscount Nelson (1758–1805) is considered one of the greatest naval commanders in British history, having establishing Britain's naval dominance with victories during the French Revolutionary and Napoleonic Wars. His death at the height of the Battle of Trafalgar ensured that his memory became revered. These volumes, first published in 1809 (and reissued here from the 1840 edition), contain Nelson's official biography, published with the blessing of his family. The authors Clarke and McArthur trace Nelson's life from his childhood until his dramatic death at Trafalgar, using Nelson's own reminiscences, his letters to his wife, and interviews and statements from close friends and colleagues. This biography remains a valuable source for Nelson's early career and character, and provides insights into how the cult of Nelson was created and sustained. Volume 1 covers Nelson's life up to 1797.