ROOKE, SIR GEORGE

(1650-1709), a British admiral, }. near Canterbury. In 1689 he was promoted to ‘al and commanded the squadron sent to relieve London derry. In 1690 he was engaged in the unfortunate action off Beachy Head. In 1692 he took part in the battle of La Hogue and led the night attack which led to the burning of thirteen French ships. In 1693 he succe fully resisted an attack on his convoy by the French. In 1704, with the rank of vice-admiral, he was in command of the expedition which captured or destroyed the Spanish treasure-ships and French warships in Vigo Bay. In 1704, with Sir Cloudesley Shovel, he captured Gibraltar and succe fully beat off an attack by the French off Malaga.