I have compiled a set of notes for Napoleon on St Helena. This list comprises historical figures, subjects and events that I found useful in developing my understanding of The Atlantic World of Napoleon Bonaparte.
Click on the relevant letter of the Alphabet or Search for a specific name. For information on the regiments search under ‘R’.
There are currently 4 names in this directory beginning with the letter D.
Damned Yankee
The, American privateer, commanded by Captain Henry Deacon, sailing out of Baltimore. Privateers had made their name in the American War of Independence on the North Amircan cost attacking British shipping. In receipt of Letters of Marque and Custom the privateers could avoid charges of piracy in return for paying tax to the authoritiies when they returned to port. Also sailed the North African, Mediterranean and North Sea coasts. In the War of 1812, The Damned Yankee became notorious for standing offshore and taking British ships as they came into and out of their home ports. During Napoleon’s exile on St Helena, the Damned Yankee was sighted sailing near the island on several occasions.
Dance
Nathaniel. 1748-1827. Senior Captain of the Honourable East India Company’s Fleet. By 1780 he had made eight voyages to India and had attained his captaincy. In January 1804 he was the senior captain of a fleet of 27 merchantmen returning to Britain from the Far East. It was attacked by a French fleet in the Straits of Malacca. Although mainly unarmed, the British retaliated and the French were driven off. The British vessels returned via St Helena to London. Dance received a reward of £5,000 and a Knighthood.
De Melo
Don Manuel. Born c. 1742 in Lisbon and grew up in Buenos Aires. De Melo established businesses in West Africa, Bahia, Rio de Janeiro and London before settling in Montevideo.
Douro
May 1809. The British Army under Wellington’s command landed in Portugal and moved north from Lisbon. They came up to the south bank of the river Douro at Oporto and planned to cross to attack Soult on the following day. During the night some empty wine barges were found on the bank and the army began to embark to cross over. A bridgehead was established in the Bishop’s Seminary on the opposite bank. 2nd Battalion 66tth Foot crossed in the second wave.
