Edward Rotheram | |
|---|---|
 Edward Rotheram in 1803 | |
| Born | 27 December 1753 Hexham, Northumberland |
| Died | 6 November 1830 Bildeston, Suffolk |
| Allegiance |  United Kingdom |
| Service |  Royal Navy |
| Years of service | 1777 to 1808 |
| Rank | Royal Navy Captain |
| Battles / wars | |
| Awards | Companion of the Order of the Bath |
Captain Edward Rotheram CB (27 December 1753 – 6 November 1830) was a senior officer of the British Royal Navy, who served for many years during the American War of Independence, French Revolutionary War and Napoleonic Wars. During his service, Rotheram saw action at several major naval engagements, including as a lieutenant at the Glorious First of June in 1794 and as captain of HMS Royal Sovereign at the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805. Although he was highly praised for his actions at both battles, he was not well regarded in the service, being once described by his admiral at Trafalgar, Cuthbert Collingwood, as "a man of no talent as a sea officer" and "a stupid man".
Rotheram gained a reputation as a difficult officer to serve with, and he rapidly alienated his fellow officers and the sailors who served under him. Ultimately this character trait resulted in his removal from service and overlooking for promotion in 1808 after being court martialled for inappropriate behaviour towards junior officers. The rest of his life was spent requesting the Admiralty, often in an aggressive manner, for both further service and the rewards he felt were his due.