Born in 1762, William Hargood's naval career spanned over 30 years, as he rose from humble midshipman to the captain of one of the most powerful warships of the day at Trafalgar. He campaigned all over the known world: the Americas, West Indies, throughout the Mediterranean. Britain was hardly ever at peace during those troubled times and men like Hargood sought out her enemies wherever they could find them. This is the age of gold bullion, pirates, plunder and grapeshot.During his career Hargood became a close friend of Admiral Lord Nelson and shared many an experience and triumph with him.Hargood's Belleisle was dismasted in the thick of action at Trafalgar but never sunk.