"The British Fire Bombing of Quebec City in 1759" Topic

"FIRE IS A POWERFUL WEAPON. During the siege of Quebec City in the French and Indian War, both sides attacked with it. The arrival of the General James Wolfe's Army with a Royal Navy fleet on June 28 surprised the defenders of Quebec. Many thought the British would have difficulty navigating the dangerous waters of the mouth of the St Lawrence River and the move was unexpected.

With 49 warships and 140 support vessels, the British armada must have been an impressive sight. However, the fleet was confined to a narrow channel of the river, between the island of Orleans and the south shore. Though the fleet was safely tucked away from the artillery of Quebec, the French saw an opportunity to defeat the British before the siege could even begin.

That night, under the cover of darkness seven French ships silently slipped out of harbour. The vessels were stuffed with flammables ready to be lit once close enough to the enemy's ships. It was a good plan. However, one captain lost his nerve and set fire to his ship prematurely. The others dutifully followed suit except for one ship commanded by Captain Dubois de La Milletière. He held off, attempting to close his distance with the British. Unfortunately, with the other fireships alit, his vessel soon also caught fire, killing him and his crew…"

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