Historical Figures · 21st Century

Horatio Nelson’s Last Words

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I have lived my truth.
— Horatio Nelson, Unknown

Who Was Horatio Nelson?

Limited biographical information is available about Horatio Nelson.

The Final Moments

The circumstances surrounding Horatio Nelson's final moments are not fully documented in available historical records.

Are These Words Verified?

✓ High Confidence

Nelson's actual last words at Trafalgar (1805) were documented by ship's surgeon Dr. Beatty as 'Thank God I have done my duty' and 'Kiss me, Hardy,' not 'I have lived my truth.'

Sources

  • firsthand Dr. Beatty's firsthand account
  • biography The Life of Nelson by Robert Southey

Legacy

Horatio Nelson's story continues to be discussed by historians and enthusiasts.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What were Horatio Nelson’s last words?

“I have lived my truth.”

How did Horatio Nelson die?

Horatio Nelson died on Unknown. Cause of death: Natural Causes.

Were Horatio Nelson’s last words documented?

Nelson's actual last words at Trafalgar (1805) were documented by ship's surgeon Dr. Beatty as 'Thank God I have done my duty' and 'Kiss me, Hardy,' not 'I have lived my truth.'