Captain Matthew Webb, a retired merchant seaman, embarked on a historic swim in 1875, braving fierce winds, treacherous currents, and multiple jellyfish stings to cross 39 miles from Dover to France in almost 22 hours.
Captain Webb
Captain Matthew Webb, a pioneer in his time, made history by becoming the first person to swim the English Channel in 1875, relying on his determination and unconventional attire.