BLAKE, ROBERT

(1599-1657), Eng. admiral and naval hero; b. Bridgwater, Somersets hire; sat in Short Parliament prin; adherent of parliamentary cause; ist in gui shed himself for resolute defense of Bristol (1643), Lyme (1644), and Taunton; app. with two colonels to command of fleet (Feb. 1649); destroyed bulk of Royalist squadron near Cart a gena (Nov. 1650); fought succe fully against Dutch, who were led by famous commanders, Ruyter, Tromp, and Witt (1652-53), and by his victories founded ¥ng. naval supremacy; defeated the final blow at Santa Cruz (1657); died at sea (Aug. 17); renowned for skill, daring, and lofty character; innovator in tactics.