Robert Blake (1599 – 17 August 1657) is one of the most important military commanders of the Commonwealth of England, and one of the most famous English admirals of the 17th century.

Blake is one of thirteen siblings born to a merchant in Bridgwater, Somerset, where he attendedd Bridgwater Grammar School For Boys.

After attending Wadham College, Oxford, he had hoped to follow an academic career, but failed to secure a fellowship to Merton College, probably because of his political and religious views (although it is said his height, 5 foot 6 inches, went against him).

Having returned to Bridgwater, probably because of the death of his mother in 1638, he decides to stand for election to Parliament.