The two-column attack at Trafalgar

Nelson aimed toward Villeneuve's flagship while Collingwood's heavier column was meant to cut the allied line near its center and prevent mutual support. Nelson considered directing the action from the fast frigate HMS Euryalus, but chose to lead his column from Victory while Collingwood led from Royal Sovereign. The allied fleet's reversal changed which end was van and rear without allowing ships to exchange their places in the line. Earlier British commanders had used related methods, so the two-column attack was not wholly unprecedented. Its success nevertheless depended on captains and crews able to act confidently, whereas Villeneuve and Gravina had struggled to organize a reluctant, dispersed coalition fleet before contact.