Abercromby, Ralph (1734–1801)

Scottish soldier. In 1801 he commanded an expedition to the Mediterranean, charged with the liquidation of the French forces left behind by Napoleon in Egypt. He fought a brilliant action against the French at Aboukir Bay 1801, but was mortally wounded at the battle of Alexandria a few days later.

Abercromby was born in Menstrie, Clackmannanshire, and studied law at Edinburgh and in Germany at Leipzig. He joined the army, accompanied the Duke of York on the two disastrous campaigns against the French in Holland 1793 and 1799, and by his skilful administration and humanity gained the support of the whole army. On 18 February 1797 the Spanish governor surrendered Trinidad to Abercromby without a fight, and the cession was confirmed by the Treaty of Amiens 1802.