Jan Carel Josephus Van Speijk

Jan Carel Josephus Van Speijk (January 31, 1802 - February 5, 1831) Dutch Naval Commander

Verified

• "Dan liever de lucht in."
  • Translation: "I'd rather be blown up."
  • Notes: His words on February 5, 1831 when he decided that he'd rather blow up his ship than let it fall into the hands of rebels during the Belgian War of Independence. He subsequently blew up the ship by igniting the gunpowder storage with his cigar.