18th-century London force. Penalties for crime were harsh, with the death penalty being applied for fairly minor crimes. Public hangings were common in London, and were popular public events. In 1780, London was rocked by the Gordon Riots, an uprising by Protestants against Roman Catholic emancipation led by Lord George Gordon. Severe damage was caused to Catholic churches and homes, and 285 rioters were killed. 18th-century London The 18th century was a period of rapid growth for London, reflecting an increasing national population, the early stirrings of the Industrial Revolution, and London's role at the centre of the evolving British Empire. In
Battle of Martinique (1780) further action prior to the hurricane season. Guichen returned to France with many of his damaged ships in August, and Rodney sailed for New York. White and Blue Squadron White Squadron, Luc Urbain de Bouëxic (Chevalier de Saint Louis) Blue Squadron Unengaged Battle of Martinique (1780) The Battle of Martinique, also known as the Combat de la Dominique, took place on 17 April 1780 during the American Revolutionary War in the West Indies between the British Royal Navy and the French Navy. In January 1780, the Comte de Guichen was sent to the French base at Martinique in the West