Édouard Adolphe Casimir Joseph Mortier, French general and politician, 15th Prime Minister of France (d. 1835)

Adolphe Édouard Casimir Joseph Mortier, the 1st Duke of Trévise (born February 13, 1768, and passed away on July 28, 1835), stands as a prominent figure in French military history, renowned for his distinguished service as a French military commander and, notably, as a Marshal of the Empire under Emperor Napoleon I. His illustrious career spanned the tumultuous periods of both the French Revolutionary Wars and the subsequent Napoleonic Wars, marking him as a veteran of France's most transformative conflicts.

Rising from humble beginnings in the pre-Revolutionary era, Mortier quickly demonstrated exceptional military acumen. He began his service in the National Guard, rapidly ascending through the ranks during the French Revolutionary Wars (1792-1802), a series of sweeping conflicts that reshaped Europe and saw the birth of the First French Republic. His early successes on the battlefield caught the attention of the rising star, Napoleon Bonaparte.

Under Napoleon's command, Mortier's career reached its zenith during the Napoleonic Wars (1803-1815). He was among the initial cohort of eighteen generals elevated to the prestigious rank of Marshal of the Empire in 1804, a testament to his tactical brilliance, loyalty, and unwavering courage. This elite group, often referred to as "Marshals of Napoleon," formed the backbone of the Grande Armée. Mortier commanded various corps with distinction, participating in crucial campaigns across Europe. For instance, his successful occupation of Hanover in 1803 showcased his administrative capabilities, while his leadership in battles such as Friedland in 1807 further solidified his reputation as a formidable military strategist. In recognition of his enduring service and significant contributions, Napoleon further honored him with the hereditary title of Duke of Trévise in 1808, a ducal title in the Napoleonic nobility, reflecting his command of the Hanseatic garrisons during the War of the Fourth Coalition.

Even after Napoleon's downfall and during the Bourbon Restoration and the subsequent July Monarchy, Marshal Mortier continued to serve France. He held various important governmental and military posts, including ambassadorial roles and a brief but significant tenure as the Prime Minister of France and Minister of War from November 1834 to March 1835. His willingness to serve different regimes underscored his commitment to his nation, earning him respect across the political spectrum.

However, his distinguished life met a sudden and tragic end on July 28, 1835, in one of the most infamous assassination attempts in French history. While attending a review of the National Guard alongside King Louis Philippe I on the Boulevard du Temple in Paris, Marshal Mortier was among the eighteen individuals killed by the "infernal machine" concocted by Giuseppe Marco Fieschi. Fieschi, a Corsican revolutionary, constructed a weapon consisting of twenty-five rifle barrels mounted on a frame, designed to fire simultaneously. The device, aimed at the King, unleashed a devastating volley, missing Louis Philippe I but inflicting horrific casualties among his retinue and the assembled crowd. Marshal Mortier, who was riding directly beside the King, tragically bore the brunt of the attack, dying instantly. This event, a stark reminder of the political instability of the era, deeply shocked the nation and highlighted the personal risks associated with high office.

Frequently Asked Questions about Marshal Mortier and the Fieschi Assassination Attempt

Who was Adolphe Édouard Casimir Joseph Mortier?

Adolphe Mortier was a highly decorated French military commander and one of the original eighteen Marshals of the Empire under Napoleon I. He served extensively during the French Revolutionary and Napoleonic Wars, distinguishing himself in numerous campaigns and earning the title 1st Duke of Trévise.

What was the Fieschi assassination attempt?

The Fieschi assassination attempt, which occurred on July 28, 1835, was a notorious plot by Giuseppe Marco Fieschi to assassinate King Louis Philippe I of France. Fieschi used a homemade multi-barreled gun, often called an "infernal machine," which tragically killed eighteen people, including Marshal Mortier, though the King himself survived with minor injuries.

Why was Marshal Mortier killed in the Fieschi attack?

Marshal Mortier was killed because he was riding in close proximity to King Louis Philippe I during the National Guard review when Fieschi's "infernal machine" was detonated. He was an unintended but tragic victim of the attack, which was primarily aimed at the King.

What significant roles did Mortier hold apart from being a Marshal?

Beyond his military commands, Mortier served in various high-ranking civilian and diplomatic capacities, including French Ambassador to Russia and, notably, as the Prime Minister of France and Minister of War for a brief period in 1834-1835 under King Louis Philippe I.