Q&A · 8:18-8:35

Why was the Royal Navy's final capital ship named Vanguard?

The final Vanguard's name recalled Nelson's flagship at the Battle of the Nile.

HMS Vanguard Horatio Nelson Royal Navy

Watch at this time Full video guide

Question

Why was the Royal Navy's final capital ship named Vanguard?

Short answer

The name recalled Nelson's flagship at the Battle of the Nile.

Notes

Nelson fought the Battle of the Nile aboard Vanguard. Reusing the name for the Royal Navy's final capital ship connected her with that earlier flagship.