Villeneuve had asked to be relieved and did not believe himself suited to the post. Some ships lacked enough capable sailors for work aloft and had to use officers for tasks normally performed by trained ratings. Soldiers embarked with the fleet also carried political authority over officers whose loyalty or commitment they doubted. His problem extended beyond personal ability: he had to conduct the operation inside a strained and mistrustful organization.
Notable Point · 16:06-16:58
Villeneuve's command nightmare
Villeneuve commanded under conditions he considered unsuitable, with weak crews, soldiers aboard ship, and political pressure on his officers.