The opening tactical sketch sets the French and Spanish attempt to form a line against the British approach in two columns. HMS Africa, a 64-gun ship of the line, arrived separately and sailed along the enemy line, encouraging the belief that more British ships were approaching from another direction. Nelson put more ships in Collingwood's column so the attack could split the opposing fleet and defeat each part in turn. This maneuver predates the later torpedo-era idea of crossing the T. Once through the line, British ships could bring both broadside batteries into action.
Chapter · 1:30-3:53
The British columns and HMS Africa's unexpected approach
Nelson's two columns were meant to break the Allied line, while HMS Africa's separate arrival made the British approach harder to read.