November 14, 1854 · Crimea Theater
November 14, 1854
A catastrophic hurricane struck the Allied fleet on November 14, 1854, sinking or damaging dozens of supply ships and destroying the winter clothing, medical supplies, and food intended for British troops on the Crimean heights. The subsequent winter of 1854–55 was one of the worst in memory. British troops in inadequate tents without proper clothing, food, or medical care died by the thousands. Russell's dispatches to The Times created a national scandal that toppled the Aberdeen government.
Commanders