Villeneuve gained ships at Cádiz, but his dealings at Cartagena had already antagonized Spanish officers. One interpretation is that sending the full admiral Federico Gravina did more than reinforce Villeneuve with six ships of the line and a frigate. Gravina could represent Spanish authority and prevent Villeneuve from further alienating officers whom he needed to command as allies. Coalition warfare here depended on rank, national sovereignty, and personal trust as well as fleet strength.
Notable Point · 20:08-21:20
Gravina as Spanish liaison and counterweight
Gravina's squadron brought ships to Villeneuve, but his presence also helped manage the coalition relationships the French admiral had already strained.