Seizure of Porto Bello by Admiral Vernon, 1739.

Admiral Vernon's seizure of Porto Bello with just six ships in 24 hours contrasted markedly with the unsuccessful attempt to seize it back in the 1727 - 1729 war. Such was the extent of celebration back in Britain that it inspired the writing of 'Rule Britannia' and the use of 'Portobello Road' in the middle of London. It was wildly popular but perhaps set expectations a little too high. Image courtesy of National Maritime Museum