However, the British were unwilling to evacuate unless the guarantees of independence materialized. On the other hand, Napoleon was impatient. Many negotiation attempts were foiled by Napoleon’s refusal to compromise or agree. Britain declared war on France on 18 May 1803. While awaiting for the French navy to make the first move, the British remained in a defensive strategy for nearly two years. However, Spain joined the war as an ally to France in 1804. Spain granted Napoleon the resources and ships he needed to challenge Britain. Napoleon began to seek opportunities to strike Britain without having to face off with Horatio Nelson and the Royal Navy. The course of the war was defined by Napoleon’s indirect schemes to defeat Britain. Most of Napoleon’s attempts to attack British interests were foiled by expert seamen who countered his every move.
Horatio Nelson’s presence aboard the HMS Victory was very crucial because he seemed to electrify the men under his command. He explained that his battle plan was key to decisive combat. The plan stated that Nelson and his fleet would annihilate the French if they put to sea in hopes that