MICHAEL ADRIANSZON RYUYTER

Most marine historians agree that the Dutch admiral Ryuyter was one of the most prominent naval commanders of all times and peoples. Tactics and strategy, which he followed, in most cases led him to victory.

Michael Adrianszon Ryuyter born March 24, 1607 in Vlissingen. He started the marine service, with 11 years yungoy on commercial vessels. By 1635 he was already captain, participated in long-distance hikes. In 1641 Seaman fired in Rear-admirals, and was appointed chief of squadron. In 1642, during the war against Holland, Portugal and Spain, Ryuyter commanded the fleet and with the San Vicente forced to retreat strongest opponent. He also led a successful fight against Berber pirates.

Especially Ryuyter glorified in the Anglo-Dutch wars, and as a leader of the junior and as a chief.

When the first broke the Anglo-Dutch war of 1652-1654 years, except for the main forces of De Witt at Teksele for escorting merchant ships and the navy was formed in Ryuytera Vilingene. August 10, collecting only 22 vessels on order of a Government Ryuyter out to sea as a cover for the caravan of 50 ships traveling from Tekselya through the English Channel.

Knowing that sea superior enemy forces, a seaman limited supervision, have not yet received sufficient reinforcements to attack and split the squadron Askyu from Plymouth. Before the battle, he divided the fleet into three squadrons, each of which gave two Brander. Brander followed by the first signal coupled to the largest of the English courts. Three flagship galiota earmarked to rescue the crews of ships sunk. Commercial ships were distributed among the fleet, and those who had weapons, were to protect the rest. August 28, 1652 Ryuyter found English fleet and attacked him. Before the battle flag, made a speech inspired, inspiring seamen valiantly fight for the fatherland and freedom of the seas. Ryuyter commanded the center. Twice he penetrate enemy lines, with six ships long withstand the entire fleet of enemy fire forced the British to withdraw from the battle ships of the admiral and vice admiral. By 20 o′clock the battle ended. The Dutch won the battle Plimutskom. The British lost three ships and fled. Ryuyter followed them, while engaged in ship repair. By the morning he was ready to fight, but the enemy is far-left, using the advantage of speed. Meanwhile, the merchant ships safely reached the goal.

At the military council Ryuyter proposed action. However, the wind, replaced on 30 August in the south-west, is not allowed to attack the Dutch. Ryuyter went to the shores of Holland and cruise there. On hearing of the motion of 68 ships of Admiral Blake Garvicha to the west in support of Askyu, Dutch captain tried to avoid battle with the superior forces of the enemy. In addition, his ships were in need of powder, shells, and doctors. October 8, between Dunkirk and Nivportom Ryuyter joined with came from Tekselya 44 warships de Witt, who took command. After sending 10 ships to repair the de Witt had 64 ships and occupied the position between Askyu and Blake, who had not yet joined the squadron at Plymouth because of the oncoming wind. At the military council Ryuyter felt that the loss is equivalent to take the battle fleet. De Witt decided to fight. Blake, however, the attack on 8 October has been a surprise for the Dutch. During the Battle of the Kentish-Nok beach and the center of the avant-garde, which commanded Ryuyter and De Witt, fought bravely. But the British strongly attacked, resorting to the board. Dutch ships were beaten, the flagship of Ryuytera received four holes at the waterline. The Dutch have lost 20 ships, while Blake has received support from Plymouth, as previously warned Ryuyter. Naval hardly succeeded in persuading De Witt waive continuation of the battle and return to ports.

These two battles are clear: Ryuyter understood that the attack will be successful under certain conditions (the possibility of surprise attack, the superiority of forces), but if the conditions for victory in the fleet is not distracted, it should avoid collisions with the superior forces of the enemy.

By December, the Dutch brought the strength of the fleet to 70 ships and several Brander. However, these ships were mostly armed merchant ships. Under the flag of Admiral M. TROMP fleet came out of Tekselya, konvoiruya to Cape Lizard 300 Dutch commercial vessels. Since Blake is not expecting a quick speech enemy, scattered the forces of ports, and stood in Dover with 37 ships, TROMP it decided to attack and divide. In the battle Duvrskom December 10, initially Ryuyteru and Evertsu had to withstand the onslaught of English, yet not come to the aid of TROMP. Blake retreated to the Thames and its Ryuyter vigorously pursued. The English ship surrendered two and three were killed, the Dutch lost only one ship, and safely conducted through the English Channel the entire convoy.

In 1653 Ryuyter received the rank of Vice Admiral. In the winter in England, hard cooked navy, and in February 1653 left 68 ships at sea. Meanwhile TROMP Dutch fleet engaged in escorting merchant ships. February 27, with 76 ships, guarding the 300 commercial vessels, Dutch admiral was on the meridian Portland. The next morning, 7 of the Dutch ships engaged in battle with three British, which lasted three hours. Ryuyter in the vanguard broke into the center of an enemy building. His ships were deprived of the rigging of the British fire. Vice Admiral decided to board and personally commanded the sailors, ovladevshimi enemy ship. However, he was surrounded by 20 British ships of Admiral Pena. Only assistance Evertsa, overshadowed 6 ships damaged foam in Portsmouth, has Ryuyteru resist. Portland battle lasted till evening and the next day. Both sides suffered in the crossfire, the British have a few damaged merchant ships. But the victory was left for the Dutch, because the departure Blake helped the Dutch to carry out convoy in Dunkirk.

In the battle of 12-13 June 1653 at the head of the avant-garde aground Gabard Ryuyter, winning wind direction, strongly attacked the vanguard Lawson, trying to break him, but failed due to a better state of British ships. TROMP rushed to the aid of the injured Ryuytera Squadron, after which the battle turned into a landfill, and lasted up to 20 hours.

Photo — «Michael Adrianszon Ryuyter»

Having been reinforced by night, the British resumed their battle in the morning and took 15 enemy ships. By the evening divided the Dutch, who ran out of gunpowder, retreated to Vilingenu.

In the Battle of Scheveningen on 10 August at the Dutch were unable to break the British. In the battle fell M. TROMP. Nevertheless tug of the sea has played a role: a prisoner in April 1654 the world was for Holland easier than initially proposed by the British.

During the first Anglo-Dutch War, demonstrated the art of tactical Ryuytera that small forces successfully acted against the greater, has tried to use the surprise attack and the principle of private victory. In the strategy it has sought waiver of the protection of trade and use of the fleet for the destruction of enemy naval forces. 2 nd Anglo-Dutch war of 1665-1667 years broke out as the first one, because of the trade and economic contradictions. Immediately the Dutch government has banned its commercial vessels out to sea, to all the forces to send a fleet to fight the enemy. Opponents have approximately equal fleets. The British were not prepared to accept battle, but the Dutch have joined forces. Still, their fleet under the command of Vassenara defeated the English fleet from the Duke of York in the battle at Loustofta. This was the first in the history of the battle in which opponents maintained from the beginning to the end of linear tactics.

Ryuyter meanwhile returned with 20 ships from the West Indies. The British deployed 70 ships to intercept it. However, Dutch captain, warning of the operation, chart a course to the north. Following the coast of Norway, he passed a squadron of Admiral sandwiches and arrived safely in the Ems 8 August, 1665. Seaman immediately fired at the lieutenant-admirals, and was appointed chief of the fleet of the United Provinces.

August 11, in Teksele Ryuyter took command. He identified each of the three squadrons of 7 ships and organized a squadron of reserve, which should monitor the actions of the other squadrons and go to their assistance at the direction of the Chief - the instructions, the latest blow to be applied to your backup squadron. Over time Ryuyter refused to reserve squadron that all forces use the first-strike.

Ryuyter allowed during battle squadron commanders, if because of the smoke is not possible to distinguish its signals act independently and give their subordinates the signals on the board or other disposition, in order to conform to the basic intentions of Supreme Commander. In the battle should firmly abide by the established order, with the output from which the commander of the first time fine, but when repeated - penalty. Violation of order authorized under general or a Navy squadron for a signal on the board. To chase boats were isolated from the nearest enemy squadron, so that one ship more than the enemy, and pursued it to start only on a signal admiral. In case of separation before it set the place rendezvous (meeting).

Each squadron has devoted to the exploration of three frigates and three galiota, several frigates and galiotov should be to rescue the drowning persons. Special galioty were for resupply of food and ammunition from the port, as part of their fleet to follow. Among other innovations Ryuyter soldiers took to the ships, which now number in the navy up to 3200 people. At the board should have a lead, that the threat of seizure of the vessel to sink secret documents. On the ships have greatly increased the number of doctors. Commanders should have to pay attention to the improvement of food for seafarers. To lift the spirit was the prize for sinking Brander. At admiralty ships gathered the best pilots, familiar with Bank of England. The revision of statutes was drawn attention to the improvement of discipline and penalties for its violation. Admiral and commanding Ryuyter published to guide the instruction, the method maneuvering squadron conducted exercises. In the course of bilateral exercises, he was shooting incapable commanders. Sailors learn to win the wind direction, compass on board, to send signals. All of these activities, along with staffing navy warships special construction, contributed to the creation of a regular fleet of Holland.

Meanwhile, the British, making two unsuccessful attempts to attack the Dutch troops, scattered their ships to different ports. Ryuyter also collected all the forces in Teksele August 29 and put to sea, intending to destroy the garrison Tidemana from 14 ships to remain in the north. However, he has not found the garrison in Bergen on 17 September and returned to Teksel. October 9, after the repair of vessels affected by the storm, the fleet came to the shores of England. Intelligence galioty were 17 ships in Garviche. However, before the advent of Ryuytera Russian squadron disappeared in the Thames. Three weeks, the Dutch blocked the mouth, had a depth, but due to massive disease had come back on 4 November in Teksel, leaving the squad for the blockade.

In winter in the Netherlands to build new ships for military service. By April 96 all the Dutch ships were concentrated in Teksele, while the British had 80 ships on the Thames. To the Dutch were to join 30 French ships of Brest. Ryuyter intended to connect the French and the general battle to the enemy. However, the British, to prevent the meeting of allies, left the main force against Ryuytera Monk and Rupert squadron sent to delay the French squadron Beaufort. Ryuyter took advantage of the division of the British. He went to sea, and on June 10 stood at anchor between Dunkirk and Nortforlendom. He was attacked, and with 35 ships Monk, whose rearguard behind. Ryuyter ordered to cut the anchor ropes, however, under the wind, a long time to come into the battle. Off Dunkirk English avant-garde, turning, confronted with the center Ryuytera and he was upset. Dutch captain caught up with to avoid fighting the English, cut their way and took two British flagship. One of the three fired Dutch Brander had success. By night English fleet passed by remaining outside the Dutch rearguard battle. The next two days the opponents continued to fight. Through skillful maneuvering Ryuyter saved from destruction K. TROMP, away from the main force, but his ship had received considerable damage.

Photo — «Michael Adrianszon Ryuyter»

Monk and kept the evening of June 13, joined with Rupert, and in the morning once again turned to attack, with new ships in the forefront.

Both fleets were originally parallel courses, while an artillery battle with Dutchmen accompanied by wind. At 10 hours English rearguard passed through the Dutch line, separating it. The commander of the Dutch avant-garde van Nes pursued group of British ships, beat him wind. By noon the only center Ryuytera continued to fight through the wind and the wing structure separated from him. By 15 o′clock TROMP joined with certainly, but the wind was not able to join the center. Assessing the situation, Ryuyter sacrificed windward position and made a connection with the department of the navy. The British were under attack from two sides. They did not pass, system collapsed. Dutch encircled the enemy and chased him until the fog prevented.

Ryuyter won because the enemy has successfully used the division to fight and well prepared as the navy′s instructions, and maneuvers. In the battle-chief had the principle of mutual support and to concentrate forces. Both he and his younger flagship during the battle trying to keep its forces in one line. In 4-day battle the British lost 17 ships, including the 9 have the Dutch, who lost all 4 of the ship.

Back in Vilingen, Ryuyter immediately began to repair ships. Personally, watching the work, encouraging, and handing out awards, he was able, through the full 13 days to prepare a fleet of 85 ships and 18 Brander to fight and campaign. July 6, the fleet left the Vilingena and headed to the shores of England. Ryuyter intended to block are not yet ready to English fleet in the Thames and landed landing. July 19, the Dutch arrived in the mouth of the Thames, but decided to limit Ryuyter blockade. He cruise prior to the start of August. Meanwhile, the British hastily prepared and 1 August, brought to a campaign fleet of 85 ships and 19 Brander. Knowing this from the patrol ships, Ryuyter went to Nortforlendu, where the position was more suitable for general combat. August 4 to 8 miles from the Cape were of the fleets.

The battle began at noon. Due to the weak wind Dutch avant-garde Evertsa separated from the main force and was attacked by English avant-garde Alain. The Dutch gave the enemy a solid response, but all three Admiral (Everts, Vries, Koenders) fell in battle, which caused panic in many courts. The teams refused to fight, and the avant-garde turned to flight.

Liberated ships had joined the English avant-garde to its center. Monk led a tenacious battle with Ryuyterom, who waited for help from the rearguard. But the English Admiral Smith tried to link the fight to attract and K. TROMP rearguard commander of the main forces, which he managed. TROMP persecuted Englishmen to Galopera and only then turned to the main forces. Meanwhile Ryuyteru 12 ships had to endure battle against an enemy most of the fleet. By evening, the Admiral decided to retreat, retreat covering avant-garde. The British are resolutely pursued, malovetrie tried to use fire-ship against ship Ryuytera, but without success. On the approaches to the coast of Holland the British stopped the persecution. August 6, the Dutch came to Vilingen; there arrived and TROMP. In action TROMP Dutch chief found the primary cause of defeat. Only through skillful and decisive retreat Ryuytera Dutch fleet lost only 10 ships, while the British lost 4.

Using the fact that all the Dutch ships were concentrated in Vilingene, the British attacked on 20 August at the port of influence, landed landing, merchant ships destroyed and the warehouses on the shore and safely returned to Garvich. Ryuyter did not respond to an attack. September 6, he came with a fleet of 99 ships and 28 Brander and September 8, stopped in Dunkirk, waiting for news of the French fleet in Brest, from which he had to interact. Soon the flag to learn about 90 ships from Garvicha and decided, without waiting for the French to go towards the British. When an English fleet of the enemy began to retreat to Dover, and when Ryuyter went to Calais, moved to Portsmouth, rendered on 16 September on the road connection allied fleets. And Ryuyter, Beaufort, and were ordered to go to Brest. However, due to the lateness of the hour Ryuyter refused to march to the south because of difficulties reverse path, and 11 November the fleet arrived in Vilingen.

In spring 1666 the Dutch missiles, besides the existing fleet of 72 ships, 19 ships of a squadron to protect ports, to avoid cases such as raids on influence. The British are expected to fight against the trade in the colonies and in Europe to limit defense of the coasts, it is not arming in order to save the fleet. But defense of rivers and ports by the end of May had not been completed. Knew the situation Ryuyter July 14, led the fleet to the mouth of the Thames. This Admiral has sent ships to the landings, which went up the river, captured the fortress Shirness, came to Chatham. The Dutch ship cut off the storage of materials, stocks of gunpowder and purveyance, seized and burned the ship. Next Ryuyter confined blockade. Foray into the mouth of the Thames has caused panic in England and led her to conclude in Brede advantageous for the Dutch world.

In 1671 Ryuytera made in the admirals, and in 1673 he received the highest naval rank of lieutenant-general Admiral Holland.

The third Anglo-Dutch War of 1672-1674 years, he again distinguished. March 23, 1672 the British attacked the Dutch merchant ships at the island and the White March 29, declared war on the Netherlands, April 7, they were joined by France. Already five days Ryuyter sent light court to cover the entrances to the ports. Captain had intended to build on Teksele sufficient force so that they go to the Thames and to exterminate the English court. But the fact that the English fleet had put to sea and joined with the French, should avoid battle is not yet meet all the Dutch ships, or wait for a favorable situation.

May 9, he sent for the exploration of 4 frigates and hurried zelandsky Bankerta squad, who arrived only on May 12. Captain decided not to battle the combined forces superior enemy is far from the Dutch base and went Vilingen where reinforcements arrived.

Photo — «Michael Adrianszon Ryuyter»

May 26 Ryuyter had withdrawn its forces into the sea near the intersection of the main ways allies. May 28 patrol frigates was told about the appearance of an enemy fleet at Dunkirk parallels. May 31 Ryuyter seen the enemy and immediately began to recede, zamanivaya Allies to the Dutch coasts, but also the Duke of York did not pursue him, and went to the bay Solebey for the replenishment of water and provisions. It is intended enticed out to the Dutch Dogger Bank, and to give battle, but lies carelessly without taking measures to monitor the Dutch. Ryuyter same stocks with the transport ships, decided to attack the Allies in Solebee, 75 miles north of the mouth of the Thames.

June 6, Allied fleet still remained in the bay. Duke of York, having received information that Ryuyter Teksele to replenish stocks, has decided to continue the park for another day. Admiral Sandwich objected, fearing a surprise attack, but criticized his commander in abundance of caution. The morning of June 7, Dutch Fleet (91 spacecraft, 44 Brander) suddenly appeared in front of the federal fleet (65 British, 36 French ships, 22 Brander). The Dutch went swiftly to the ships at anchor, part of the team remained on the shore. Allies had to cut the anchor ropes and out of the bay. English center and rear (65 ships) after turned into a line almost parallel to the shore heading north, while the French went to the south. Ryuyter took advantage of the division opponents. Departments of 15 ships Bankerta to limit the actions of 36 ships d′Estre it with the other 76 ships made 65 against England. Ryuyter, speech to inspire the team fight, grabbed the flagship of the Duke of York, and twice led the British leader to go to another ship. Who fought bravely in the forefront of Sandwich died when the lifeboat left beaten, podozhzhenny Brander ship "Royal James". Attacks van Gent frustrated English avant-garde. Duke of York because of the proximity of the coast had to turn. Ryuyter followed him, bringing him to Bankertu, skirmish with the French. The battle ended at dusk - podtyanuli straggler fleets of ships and sailing. The English one ship was burned, nine were withdrawn from the system, 2500 people were killed and wounded, including the Admiral and 12 captains. The Dutch had lost one boat, two were damaged, and among those killed was Van Ghent. As for the ships lacked ammunition (only ship Ryuytera made 2500 shots), the Dutch chief of maneuver, enemy zamanivaya in shallow waters off the coast of Holland. June 9, he led the fleet in Vilingen 11 June and has already sent frigates to the surveillance of the enemy. The Allies declared victory, but they were forced to abandon a planned landing at Zealand and return to the Thames for the overhaul of ships. With the tactical skill Ryuyteru at lower forces succeeded in forcing the enemy to leave the sea.

As the situation on the land front, the Netherlands and due to internal turmoil, it was heavy, with boats withdrew soldiers and sailors, reducing the size of the existing fleet. Do Ryuytera remaining 47 ships, 12 frigates and 30 fire-ship, which he divided into three squadrons. During July and August, small-scale maneuvers of Admiral prevented landing and covered the movement of merchant ships.

During the winter, the Dutch have reinforced the main ports. Ryuyter personally inspected the lifeboat at all the places suitable for boarding enemy troops. During the month of March, calling for seafarers of the Merchant Navy and from abroad, and promised them rewards, the commander was able to equip a fairly large fleet. Ryuyter intended to focus a large part in Teksele, then join forces in Vilingene and go to the Thames to the courts zagradit mouth with a stone and lock the English fleet, but most follow to meet the French Do not wait for the ships of Zealand, he made May 12 by the Thames, sending intelligence . From Garvicha officer sent to the Thames lock squad. However, fog delayed the squad for the night, and when it dissipated, blocking the path of 10 British ships. Knowing that the French fleet at White Island, 15 British ships in Portsmouth, Ryuyter decided to abandon the operation and not to fall under attack from two sides, headed for the strait Shonevelt, which could delay the French on the way to the coast of Holland. May 15, he had a goal and began training squadron. Captain checked in practice, worked out the execution of instructions and sends them to light the court, watching the enemy.

June 2, about 16 hours commanding a patrol vessel Ryuyteru told about the approaching enemy, and after a few hours have been seen all 130 enemy vessels. Bad weather and a large number of troops on the decks detained attack allies. Rupert fleet consisted of 90 ships and frigates, the British and French ships stood in line alternately. Ryuyter had 52 ships, 12 frigates, 14 yachts and 25 Brander. June 7, when the weather improved, Rupert attacked the Dutch at anchor. Next due Meleiha, he sent a small craft. However Ryuyter suddenly very rapidly attacked and violated the federal structure of the avant-garde. As long as the vanguard of TROMP d′Estre and fought, Ryuyter to the center and rear chose a course that was fond of the enemy, which was built poludugoy, in shallow water. Admiral Rupert attacked and Bankert - Spragge. Bankert penetrate the enemy line, but lost his mast, which caused confusion in the rear. Ryuyter Bankerta supported and helped restore order. In the violent battle, the Dutch cut off the squad of British ships. Ryuyter could acquire them, but he preferred to go after TROMP, who went too far. Arrival Ryuytera forcing the enemy to retreat. Despite the numerical advantage, the Allies had lost 3 English and 4 French ship, 9 Brander burned them to no avail. Dutch losses in men were slim. Graf d′Estre, Commander of French squadron in its relyatsii said: "I would be paid from the soul lives for the glory, courage and prudence, which acted Ryuyter in the sea battle. "

June 14, the Allies, at anchor off the coast of Holland, decided to retreat. At the court there were many wounded, did not have enough provisions. Were reinforced Ryuyter shelter for melyami. He had intended to attack at a convenient time. When the Allies were shot with the anchor, the Dutch, with the way the wind is rapidly attacked.

Photo — «Michael Adrianszon Ryuyter»

However strong the battle is not included in the plans Ryuytera. He still has 51 spacecraft and 13 frigates against 81 Allied ships, in addition, because of the fresh wind flagship artillery could not take advantage of lower dekov. Admiral confined to the artillery exchange of long-distance. The same evening, he stopped the fight, without attempting to leave the English shores of the Allies and returned to Shonevelt. Secondary Ryuyteru managed to derail an attempt to plant the Allied landing.

Victory Ryuytera prompted the government to allocate funds for the Dutch navy. While there were preparations for a military officer council proposed to remain at Shoneveltskoy position. In June and July, the Dutch limited demos and exploration. 28 July Ryuyter learned that 125 pennants Union squadron loaded troops transport down the river on 25 July. He ordered the Navy to prepare for the entry and handed the instruction: if the Dutch Navy will contribute to a fair wind, to attack the enemy in close order, to break through its center, and fight vigorously, not prolonging it.

Two days later, enemy fleet appeared in the zone of visibility and night at anchor. Ryuyter sent to guard the three galiota, expecting a night attack Brander. The morning of August 1, the allies withdrew anchor and headed for the coast of England. Having realized that his defraud from Shonevelta, waiting to disembark on the Thames landing, Ryuyter long sought and returned. August 9, it became known that the Allies seemed to have Tekselya. Ryuyter turned to Maas, to occupy a central position. August 19, he moved to Tekselyu. To cover that goes to the port of the convoy of merchant ships, Admiral has decided to give a general battle. August 20, Dutch fleet came out of Tekselya. Rupert wanted to immediately start the battle as it was in the profitable position, but Ryuyter ordered a junior leader is not to hurry, waiting for favorable conditions. He kept close to shore, and the allies resolved not to attack. Last night the wind changed, and Ryuyter attacked, although it was against the 65 British and 30 French battleship only 70.

At the request of Louis XIV the French fleet took place at the forefront. Dutch avant-garde of the 10 ships attacked the French Bankerta, which commanded d′Estre. He left the Marquis Martel with several warships to fight against Bankerta, and he went forward from the English fleet. In the Dutch rearguard TROMP fought with his personal enemy, the commander of the English rearguard Spragge and both rearguard behind, enthusiastic battle. As a result Ryuyter concentrated against Rupert superior force. Bankert, who escaped the attempt to take it in two lights cut operational squadron d′Estre and joined its center, while the French ships were out of combat. Ryuyter, cutting off 12 ships Rupert, surrounded the remaining twenty-four of their vessels. The battle lasted until 19 hours and at dusk over the defeat of the Allies. 9 British ships drowned or burned. Dutch losses were relatively small. Decisive action Ryuytera thwarted landing Anglo-French troops in Holland.

In the Anglo-Dutch wars Ryuyter demonstrate the outstanding naval art that has raised it in a number of top naval commanders. Most of the battles he won through the use of unexpected enemy maneuvers. The main reception is a strong offensive against the enemy in order to cut off part of its fleet and to equalize the forces. Thus Admiral sought superiority. He sought to maintain a close line, but indiscipline junior leader and commanders were not allowed to make more decisive victories. If the adverse circumstances, Ryuyter preferred to wait, harboring their boats on the shore of melyami to cause a sudden blow in the moment. He consistently led the exploration, organized cordon and knew the enemy movement. Thanks to clear instructions and teachings of the subordinates knew Ryuytera plans and followed them, and recognized the authority of naval contributed to the Dutch for the most part, fought the battle with determination and even away from the main forces that sought to connect with them.

Admiral was at the top of glory. However, at this time, he instructed the impossible task, which resulted in the death of the famous naval commanders.

In July 1674 Messina rebelled, and the French king took her under his wing. In 1675 the French established in the city. Spain could not cope with the French fleet, who led Dyuken and asked for support from the Netherlands, to pay costs. The Dutch have agreed to send the squadron and Ryuytera of 18 ships and 4 Brander. Admiral believed that he entrusted to insufficient power, but released into the sea, and in September reached Cadiz. Meanwhile, the French captured the port of Agosta. Ryuyter, who was arrested by Spanish Government, it is only in December, came between Messina and Liparskimi islands to intercept ships carrying ammunition, under the escort Dyukena.

8 Jan, 1676 was the first clash. And Dyuken and Ryuyter located in kordebatalii. Flagship trial of two admirals met in a strong and prolonged artillery battle. After several hours of Spanish-Dutch squadron retreated. Ryuyter noted that it had never been in a hot battle, and attributed the victory itself, although it was clearly on the side Dyukena, because the Dutch admiral was unable to prevent the junction of the French fleet with a squadron in Messina.

April 22, at Agosty naval commanders met again. There were 29 Dyukena battleship, the Dutch and Spanish - 27 (of 10 Spanish). Ryuyter wanted to spread the unreliable Spanish ships on the line, however, commanded the Spanish admiral, concentrating them in the center. Ryuyter led the rearguard. The Allies attacked the windward side. As the Spanish ships kept away from the battle, strike assumed the avant-garde, because rearward movements followed kordebatalii. In this battle Ryuyter was fatally wounded and died a week later at Syracuse.

MA Ryuyter played a significant role in the development of naval art. He was a supporter of active attacks, first introduced the reserve, bilateral exercises, attached great importance to the interaction of forces in battle. He was chief in the 7 major sea battles and in 6 of them had achieved victory. Flotovodcheskoe art Ryuytera appreciated Peter I.

After the death of Ryuytera Spanish king granted him ducal title. Admiral put memorials in Amsterdam and other cities in Holland.