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Thomas CochraneBritish admiral and politician, Knight Grand Cross of the Order of the Bath
Date of Birth: 14.12.1775
Country:  Great Britain |
Content:
- Thomas Cochrane, 10th Earl of Dundonald
- Command and Captures on HMS Speedy
- Amiens Truce and the HMS Arab
- Successes and the "Sea Wolf"
- Basque Roads Raid and Controversy
- Political Career and Stock Exchange Accusations
Thomas Cochrane, 10th Earl of Dundonald
Early Years and Naval CareerIn 1793, Thomas Cochrane joined the Royal Navy on the frigate HMS Hind. He was commissioned as a lieutenant in 1795 and served in the Mediterranean under Admiral Lord Keith. In 1799, he was accused of disrespecting his first lieutenant and was fined. However, he was later entrusted with command of the captured French ship of the line Généreux.
Command and Captures on HMS Speedy
In 1800, Cochrane became commander of HMS Speedy, capturing over 50 enemy vessels in the Mediterranean. On May 6, 1801, he boarded and captured the Spanish frigate El Gamo. On July 21, 1801, the Speedy was captured by a French squadron after a fierce resistance. Cochrane's sword was returned to him as a tribute to his bravery.
Amiens Truce and the HMS Arab
After returning from captivity, Cochrane used his free time to study at Edinburgh University. When war resumed in 1803, he was given command of HMS Arab. Despite its slow speed, Cochrane captured the American merchant ship Chatham and was subsequently transferred to HMS Pallas.
Successes and the "Sea Wolf"
Commanding the Pallas and later the Imperieuse, Cochrane executed a series of daring and successful operations. He captured merchant ships, raided coasts, attacked enemy warships, and bombarded coastal forts and signal stations. The French nicknamed him "le loup des mers" (the sea wolf), while the British Navy recognized him as a bold and skillful captain.
Basque Roads Raid and Controversy
In 1809, Cochrane led a squadron of fireships that attacked the French fleet at Basque Roads. The raid was a success, but Admiral Gambier's reluctance to support Cochrane could have led to even more devastating consequences for the French. Cochrane's demand for a court-martial of Gambier earned him powerful enemies.
Political Career and Stock Exchange Accusations
Denied a command, Cochrane turned to politics, entering Parliament as a Westminster MP. He joined the opposition and criticized his former colleagues and Lord Castlereagh's policies. In 1810, he famously organized the defense of his ally Francis Burdett's house in Piccadilly. In 1814, Cochrane was charged with stock exchange fraud and was expelled from Parliament and the Navy despite his claims of innocence.
