Rear Admiral Sir Horatio Nelson (1758-1805) © NMM

He became the most popular British hero of his time. His victories were the brightest point in long years of war with France, and caught the public imagination.

The government helped create a Nelson legend, portraying him as a model of duty and devotion to the country, and ignoring his failures.

Nelson remains famous to this day, and his message to the fleet at Trafalgar - urging every man to do his duty - is still well known.

Nelson's funeral procession on the Thames. © NMM

His coffin lay in state in the Painted Hall at Greenwich Hospital before a grand procession up the Thames. 

Huge crowds attended five days of ceremonies, showing the widespread affection in which the dead hero was held.

Lady Hamilton (as a Bacchante) © NMM

Nelson’s bloodstained stockings and breeches from the Battle of Trafalgar are on permanent display at the National Maritime Museum.

He is commemorated by Nelson’s Column, one of London’s most famous landmarks. It was planned in 1838 and finished 11 years later. It stands in Trafalgar Square, named after Nelson’s greatest triumph.