The Hon John Byng, Admiral of the Blue, according to the Newgate Calendar was, Shot to death on board the Monarque, at Spithead, for Misbehaviour before the French Fleet in the Mediterranean.
Poor bloke had too much of an easy ride in his career with His Majesty's Navy. He was well connected (his father was an enobled Admiral), but not enough to save him from the political intrigues of the time. He was made a scapegoat, some say to draw attention from the chaotic state of the Admiralty and sentenced to death for "failing to engage the enemy" at Minorca. He took his punishment well, we are told.
No comments:
Post a Comment