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Augustus KeppelBritish sailor, 18th century admiral
Date of Birth: 25.04.1725
Country:  Great Britain |
Content:
- Early Life and Naval Career
- Around the World and the Dangers of the Sea
- Shipwreck and Vindication
- Encounter with an Artist
- Wars and Triumphs
- Controversy and Mercy
- Political Divide and Naval Honors
- Conflict with the Admiralty
- Battle of Ushant and Alleged Treason
- Tribunal and Vindication
- Later Years
- Retirement and Split with Allies
Early Life and Naval Career
Son of an Illustrious FamilyAugustus Keppel was born into a distinguished Whig family, the second son of Willem Anne van Keppel, 2nd Earl of Albemarle, and Anna van Keppel, daughter of the 1st Duke of Richmond, an illegitimate son of King Charles II.
Around the World and the Dangers of the Sea
From Cabin Boy to CaptainKeppel's naval career began at the tender age of ten. By 1740, he had risen through the ranks to become an Acting Lieutenant and was assigned to HMS Centurion, embarking on a perilous round-the-world expedition under the command of George Anson. Along the way, he narrowly escaped death at the capture of Payta (1741) and lost most of his teeth to scurvy. Upon his return in 1744, he was promoted to Commander and then Captain.
Shipwreck and Vindication
In 1747, Keppel's ship, HMS Maidstone, was lost on rocks near Belle Île while pursuing a French vessel. A subsequent trial exonerated him of any wrongdoing.
Encounter with an Artist
Through the patronage of Lord Edgecombe, Keppel met the renowned painter Joshua Reynolds in 1749. Reynolds accompanied him on the Centurion expedition to "pacify" the Dey of Algiers, creating iconic portraits of Keppel and his fellow officers.
Wars and Triumphs
Seven Years' WarKeppel served throughout the Seven Years' War, commanding the North American Station in 1755, the coast of France in 1756, and the expedition to capture Gorée in 1758. In 1759, his HMS Torbay led the assault at Quiberon.
Controversy and Mercy
In 1757, Keppel played a pivotal role in the court-martial of Admiral Byng, advocating for his pardon against the findings of the tribunal. In 1761, he led an expedition to occupy Belle Île, securing the island for Britain due in part to the simultaneous blockade of the French fleet at Brest.
Political Divide and Naval Honors
Whig LoyaltyKeppel's political views aligned strongly with the Whig party, which was out of power during this period. As a member of Parliament, he represented Windsor from 1761 to 1780 and Surrey from 1780 to 1782.
Conflict with the Admiralty
His appointment as commander of the Western Squadron for the American war in 1778 was met with skepticism, as he suspected the government, particularly First Lord of the Admiralty Sandwich, of wishing for his failure.
Battle of Ushant and Alleged Treason
The indecisive Battle of Ushant in 1778 fueled tensions with his subordinate, Sir Hugh Palliser. Keppel believed Palliser's conduct had betrayed the fleet, leading to a public smear campaign against him through the Whig press. A war of words ensued, resulting in a scandalous parliamentary inquiry.
Tribunal and Vindication
Keppel and Palliser were both acquitted in separate tribunals. Keppel's reputation was cleared, and Alexander Hood, future Lord Bridport, testified in his defense. However, Keppel was ordered to strike his flag as admiral in March 1779.
Later Years
Ministerial RolesWith the fall of Lord North's ministry, Keppel became a member of the opposition. He served as First Lord of the Admiralty after North's departure, receiving the titles Viscount Keppel and Baron Keppel of Elden and joining the Privy Council. His tenure was not particularly noteworthy.
Retirement and Split with Allies
In 1783, Keppel resigned in protest against the Treaty of Paris, severing ties with his political allies. His reputation suffered further when he joined the Fox-North coalition government. After its collapse, he retired from public life.
