Friday, November 15, 2019

Minorca 1756 - Why Byng got shot

2:00 PM... the fleets approach at an oblique angle

Beauty shot of French ships

French Line

English continue to close, having the wind advantage

The Van bears up to close faster.  The 6th ship in the British line has her for topmast shot away, causing a traffic jam in the center and rear.  Byng's flagship is 3rd from the rear.

The van closes to pistol shot and is badly cut up.   Byng is encouraged to close, and declines, citing the fact that 12 years earlier Matthews was cashiered for closing in almost exactly the same situation.  Eventually the French bear off and leave the battered English behind.