The significant naval battle that took place in 1805 was the Battle of Trafalgar, a pivotal confrontation during the Napoleonic Wars. This battle saw the British Royal Navy, commanded by Admiral Horatio Nelson, face the combined fleets of France and Spain. The British victory ensured naval supremacy for Britain and thwarted Napoleon's plans to invade England. Despite Nelson’s death in the battle, his tactics and strategy were highly regarded, leading to enduring British dominance at sea. Trafalgar solidified Britain’s position as a major world power for the next century.