Nautiterm: (Nautical Term Explained) – “Turn a blind eye” Turning a blind eye is often associated with Admiral Nelson, who was blinded in one eye in his Royal Navy career. During the Battle of Copenhagen 1801, Admiral Sir Hyde Parker sent a signal to stop Nelson’s forces taking further action. When Nelson heard this information, he lifted his telescope up to his blind eye and said “I have a right to be blind sometimes. I really do not see the signal.” Most of the forces continued to attack. Later, it was believed there was a misconception that the order was to be followed at Nelson's discretion.”