On this day 16 April - Mutiny is in the air

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On the 16th of April 1797, the Spithead mutiny began as sailors from 16 ships of the Channel Fleet, under the command of Admiral Lord Bridport, responded to poor living conditions and low pay. Several factors contributed to growing hardships for seamen aboard Royal Navy ships. First, high inflation during the latter half of the 18th century reduced the purchasing power of the sailors' wages. Second, the coppering of hulls below the waterline reduced the Navy's need to return ships to port for hull scraping. Unfortunately, the Navy did not consider how longer periods at sea would adversely impact sailors. Third, the use of pressgangs to meet recruitment quotas resulted in crews comprised of career sailors and landsmen that did not always get along with each other. The sailors demanded higher pay, reassignment of unpopular officers, and the cessation of the purser's pound in which the ship's purser kept two ounces of each pound of meat issued to sailors. During the initial weeks of the mutiny, the sailors kept to their regular duties and showed proper discipline, supported patrols and escort duty, and were ready to fight in case of French invasion. Unfortunately, negotiations temporarily broke down, but eventually Admiral Lord Howe was able to broker a deal that provided pardons for the mutineers as well as meeting the demands of the sailors.

Admiral Lord Bridport:

3911

Admiral Lord Howe:

3912


For information on today's event:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spithead_Mutiny