Antoine Philippe de La Trémoille, French general (b. 1765)

Antoine Philippe de La Trémoïlle, Prince of Talmont (born September 27, 1765, in Paris – died January 27, 1794, in Laval) was a pivotal figure among the French nobility and a fervent royalist, renowned for his significant military leadership and involvement in the counter-revolutionary struggles against the burgeoning French Revolution.

An Aristocratic Heritage and Royalist Convictions

Born into the illustrious and ancient House of La Trémoïlle, one of the most prominent ducal families in the Ancien Régime, Antoine Philippe inherited a lineage deeply intertwined with French history and royalty. His full title, Prince of Talmont, underscored his high aristocratic standing and significant landed wealth, which inherently positioned him as a staunch defender of the Bourbon monarchy and the traditional social order. This deep-seated commitment to the Crown shaped his unwavering opposition to the revolutionary ideals that began to sweep across France in the late 18th century.

Key Role in the Vendée Uprising

As the French Revolution spiraled into more radical phases, marked by the abolition of the monarchy and the execution of King Louis XVI, many royalists like La Trémoïlle felt compelled to take up arms. He became one of the most notable military leaders in the Vendée Uprising, a large-scale civil war that erupted in western France from 1793. This peasant-led, royalist, and Catholic revolt, often referred to as the Vendean Revolt, sought to restore the monarchy and defend traditional religious practices.

Military Contributions and Campaigns

Prince of Talmont joined the Catholic and Royal Army (Armée Catholique et Royale), serving primarily as a dynamic and courageous cavalry commander. His involvement was particularly prominent during the "Virée de Galerne," the desperate and ultimately disastrous strategic march of the Vendean army northward across the Loire River in late 1793. During this grueling campaign, he participated in several critical engagements:

Despite these overwhelming defeats, La Trémoïlle's resolve and bravery in battle earned him respect among his fellow royalist commanders and the Vendean fighters.

Capture and Execution

Following the catastrophic defeat at Savenay, Antoine Philippe de La Trémoïlle attempted to evade capture and organize continued resistance. However, in January 1794, he was apprehended near Ancenis in western France. He was subsequently transported to Laval, the capital of Mayenne, a department staunchly under Republican control.

There, he faced a summary trial by a revolutionary military commission, a common fate for captured royalist leaders during the brutal period known as the Reign of Terror. On January 27, 1794, at the age of 28, Antoine Philippe de La Trémoïlle, Prince of Talmont, was executed by guillotine in Laval. His death symbolized the severe repression and ultimate price paid by many members of the French aristocracy and royalist insurgents who opposed the revolutionary government.

Frequently Asked Questions About Antoine Philippe de La Trémoïlle

Who was Antoine Philippe de La Trémoïlle?
He was a prominent French noble, the Prince of Talmont, and a key military leader of the royalist forces during the Vendée Uprising against the French Revolution. His lineage connected him to one of France's oldest and most influential aristocratic families.
What was his role in the French Revolution?
As a fervent royalist, he actively fought against the revolutionary government. He served as a distinguished cavalry commander in the Catholic and Royal Army during the large-scale civil war known as the Vendée Uprising, participating in significant campaigns like the "Virée de Galerne."
How and where did the Prince of Talmont die?
He was captured in January 1794 after the defeat of the Vendean army and subsequently tried by a revolutionary military commission in Laval. He was executed by guillotine in Laval on January 27, 1794, during the height of the Reign of Terror.