Victor-François, 2nd duc de Broglie, French general and politician, French Secretary of State for War (b. 1718)

Victor François de Broglie, the illustrious 2nd duc de Broglie, was a prominent figure in 18th-century France, an aristocrat and soldier whose life spanned momentous periods of European history from the ancien régime through the tumultuous French Revolution. Born on October 19, 1718, he inherited a legacy of military service and built upon it, ultimately achieving the esteemed rank of Marshal of France.

His military career began in earnest under the guidance of his father, François-Marie, the 1st duc de Broglie. Victor François served alongside him at the battles of Parma and Guastalla, gaining invaluable experience that quickly led to him securing a colonelcy in 1734, marking the beginning of a long and distinguished path in the French army.

A Steady Ascent Through European Wars

The War of the Austrian Succession provided Victor François with further opportunities to prove his mettle. He played a significant role in the audacious storming of Prague in 1742, a feat that earned him the rank of brigadier. His service continued on the Rhine in 1744 and 1745, showcasing his growing command capabilities. The year 1745 also marked a pivotal personal moment, as he succeeded his father, becoming the 2nd duc de Broglie. Following this, he was elevated to Maréchal de Camp and served under the legendary Marshal de Saxe in the Low Countries, participating in critical engagements such as Roucoux, Val, and Maastricht. By the war's end, his consistent performance and strategic acumen were recognized with a promotion to lieutenant-general.

Triumph and Tumult in the Seven Years' War

The Seven Years' War (1756–1763) saw Broglie at the height of his military prowess. He served successively under several prominent commanders, including Louis Charles César Le Tellier, duc d'Estrées, Charles de Rohan, prince de Soubise, and Contades, demonstrating his adaptability and tactical skill across numerous fronts. He was present at every major engagement from Hastenbeck onwards, contributing to France's efforts in this widespread global conflict.

A crowning achievement came in 1759 with his decisive victory over Prince Ferdinand at the Battle of Bergen. This strategic success was profoundly acknowledged by King Louis XV, who bestowed upon him the ultimate military honor: the rank of Marshal of France. Furthermore, Holy Roman Emperor Francis I granted him the prestigious title of Prince of the Holy Roman Empire (Reichsfürst), highlighting his standing on the European stage. Following Bergen, Broglie oversaw the capture of Minden, though he later participated in the Battle of Minden under Contades, a commander he would eventually succeed, underscoring his dynamic leadership. While he secured another victory at Korbach in 1760, his campaign efforts faced a setback with a defeat at Villinghausen in 1761, a testament to the fluctuating fortunes of war.

From Disgrace to Revolution: Later Life and Legacy

After the Seven Years' War, Victor François de Broglie experienced a period of political disgrace, temporarily removing him from active service. However, his military expertise was too valuable to remain untapped for long. In 1778, he was recalled to command troops earmarked for operations against Great Britain, as France intervened to support the Thirteen Colonies during the American War of Independence, marking his return to prominence in a different geopolitical landscape.

The twilight of his career was dominated by the seismic shifts of the French Revolution. A staunch royalist, Broglie opposed the revolutionary fervor with unwavering determination. In July 1789, he commanded royalist troops at Versailles, a critical moment as tensions escalated. He briefly served as Louis XVI's minister of war, a testament to the king's desperate efforts to maintain control, before the volatile situation forced him to flee France. In exile, the duc de Broglie briefly took command of the émigré forces, known as the Army of the Princes, in 1792, attempting to restore the monarchy. His eldest son, Charles-Louis-Victor, prince de Broglie, tragically perished during the Reign of Terror, a brutal phase of the Revolution. Victor François de Broglie lived out his final years in exile, passing away at Münster in 1804. The ducal succession, following the loss of his son, ultimately fell to his grandson, who became the third duc de Broglie, ensuring the continuation of his family's distinguished lineage.

Frequently Asked Questions about Victor François de Broglie

Who was Victor François de Broglie?
Victor François de Broglie was a distinguished French aristocrat and soldier, known for his military career spanning the 18th century. He served as the 2nd duc de Broglie and achieved the highest military rank of Marshal of France, playing a significant role in several major European conflicts and during the French Revolution.
What were his key military achievements?
Among his most notable achievements were his service in the War of the Austrian Succession, including the storming of Prague, and his command during the Seven Years' War. His decisive victory over Prince Ferdinand at the Battle of Bergen in 1759 earned him the title of Marshal of France and Prince of the Holy Roman Empire from King Louis XV and Emperor Francis I, respectively. He also participated in the capture of Minden and other important engagements.
What was his role during the French Revolution?
A staunch opponent of the French Revolution, Victor François de Broglie commanded royalist troops at Versailles in July 1789 and briefly served as Louis XVI's minister of war. He eventually fled France and commanded the émigré Army of the Princes in 1792, attempting to counter the revolutionary forces.
How did his ducal title pass on?
Due to the tragic death of his eldest son, Charles-Louis-Victor, during the Reign of Terror, the ducal succession of the Broglie family passed to his grandson, who became the 3rd duc de Broglie, after Victor François's death in 1804.