Admiral Sir William Cornwallis, was a Royal Navy officer and politician. Cornwallis took part in a number of decisive battles including the siege of Louisbourg in 1758, when he was 14, and the Battle of the Saintes but is best known as a friend of Lord Nelson and as the commander-in-chief of the Channel Fleet during the Napoleonic Wars. He is depicted in the Horatio Hornblower novel, Hornblower and the Hotspur. His affectionate contemporary nickname from "the ranks" was Billy Blue, and a sea shanty was written during his period of service, reflecting the admiration his men had for him.
William Cornwallis, English admiral and politician (born 1744)
On July 5, in the year 1819, William Cornwallis, English admiral and politician (born 1744). This event is recorded as a Notable Deaths event in the history of July 5, one of 418 recorded events on this date across all of history.
1 notable person is associated with this event, including William Cornwallis. Learn more below.
Key Facts
- This event took place on July 5, 1819 (AD era).
- It is categorised as a Notable Deaths event in recorded history.
- Referenced in 1 Wikipedia article.
- 1 notable person is recorded as involved in or associated with this event.
- Wikipedia source last updated on 12 June 2026.
On This Date in History 418
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