Portal:Gibraltar/Selected biography/6

Sir George Rooke (1650 – January 24, 1709), English naval commander, was born near Canterbury in 1650. Entering the navy as a volunteer, he served in the Dutch Wars and became post captain in 1673.

He became Rear Admiral in 1690, and fought at the Battle of Beachy Head. In May 1692 he served under Russell at the Battle of Barfleur, and he greatly distinguished himself in a night attack on the French fleet at La Hogue, when he succeeded in burning six of their ships. Shortly afterwards he received the honour of knighthood and a reward of £1,000.

In 1702 he commanded the disastrous expedition against Cádiz, but on the passage home destroyed the Spanish treasure fleet in the Battle of Vigo Bay. (more...)