La Hogue, battle of

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La Hogue, battle of, 1692. Control of the Channel, lost by the defeat off Beachy Head in 1690, was restored in May 1692 by the victory of La Hogue, or La Hougue, near Barfleur. De Tourville, the French admiral, had orders to engage while still awaiting reinforcements from the Mediterranean. This gave Edward Russell (Orford), who had replaced Torrington (Byng) as commander-in-chief of the Channel fleet, an advantage of nearly two to one. The French were badly beaten and when they sought shelter were assailed by fireships and boarding parties. James II, on shore with a French invasion force, watched the destruction of his hopes. The Soleil Royal, flagship and pride of the French navy, was among the vessels burned. Russell was raised to the peerage as earl of Orford.

J. A. Cannon

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