François de Chevert, French general (b. 1695)

François de Chevert (2 February 1695 – 24 January 1769) was an eminent French general whose distinguished military career spanned over six decades, marked by a remarkable series of successes across various European theaters. Renowned for his tactical acumen and audacious leadership, Chevert rose through the ranks to become one of France's most decorated officers.

Early Life and Formative Military Career

Born in Verdun, Meuse, a strategically significant fortified city in northeastern France, on 2 February 1695, François de Chevert embarked on his military journey in 1706. His early service laid the foundation for a brilliant career, showcasing his dedication and aptitude. By 1728, he had advanced to the rank of Major within the Beauce regiment, stationed in Toul, another important fortified city. His progression continued steadily, and in 1739, he was promoted to Lieutenant-Colonel.

Chevert's early distinctions were earned across various challenging campaigns in Flanders, Piedmont, and Germany. These experiences, encompassing major conflicts such as the War of the Polish Succession (1733-1738), honed his skills and earned him recognition within the French military hierarchy. His exceptional performance was rewarded with a more prominent command: the lieutenant-colonelcy of a prestigious grenadier regiment. Grenadiers were the elite shock troops of the 18th-century army, selected for their stature, bravery, and skill in close-quarters combat, signifying the high regard in which Chevert was held.

The Audacious Siege and Defense of Prague (1741)

One of Chevert's most celebrated achievements occurred during the War of the Austrian Succession. In 1741, as part of the French forces, he played a pivotal role in the Siege of Prague, a key strategic objective. On the night of 25-26 November 1741, Chevert executed a daring and decisive maneuver known as the "Surprise of Prague" (often referred to as the Nacht von Prag). Leading his grenadiers and a detachment of infantry, he exploited a supposedly impassable sewer system or disused aqueduct, infiltrating the city's defenses through the New Gate. This audacious nocturnal assault enabled the French to open the city gates, allowing the main army, commanded by Marshal Belle-Isle, to enter Prague virtually unopposed. This swift capture avoided a prolonged and costly siege, demonstrating Chevert's innovative tactical genius.

Following the city's capture, Chevert further distinguished himself by leading the defense of Prague against subsequent Austrian counter-attacks. Despite being significantly outnumbered, he, along with other French commanders, skillfully resisted attempts by Prince Charles of Lorraine's forces to retake the city, ensuring its retention by French and Bavarian forces for several critical months.

Further Campaigns and Ascendant Ranks

Chevert's remarkable service led to his promotion to Brigadier in 1742. He continued to be at the forefront of major operations, notably participating in campaigns in the challenging mountainous terrain of the Dauphiné and Italy. His strategic importance was highlighted by his instrumental role in the Battle of Casteldelfino (also known as the Battle of Chasteau-Dauphin) in 1744. In this significant engagement within the Piedmontese Alps, French and Spanish forces secured a crucial victory against Sardinian troops, with Chevert contributing significantly to the successful assault on enemy redoubts.

Recognizing his continued valor and leadership, Chevert was promoted to Maréchal-de-Camp (equivalent to a modern-day Major General) in 1744. Later in the War of the Austrian Succession, during the campaign in Provence, he executed another swift and effective operation, seizing the strategically important Isles of Sainte-Marguerite, located off the coast of Cannes. This decisive "coup" earned him the rank of Lieutenant-General in 1748, marking him as one of the French army's most trusted and capable commanders.

Service in the Seven Years' War and Notable Setback

As a Lieutenant-General, Chevert played a prominent role in the early stages of the Seven Years' War (1756-1763), a global conflict that reshaped European alliances. He notably commanded the French flanking force at the Battle of Hastenbeck in 1757, a decisive French victory against the Anglo-Hanoverian Army. His tactical maneuver on the left flank proved crucial in securing the triumph.

In the following year, 1758, Chevert again commanded the flanking force in another significant French victory at the Battle of Lutterberg (also known as the Battle of Lutterberg), further cementing his reputation as a master of maneuver warfare. However, his otherwise unblemished record of success saw a rare exception later in 1758 during the minor engagement at Meer (or Mehr) near Meerbusch. In this skirmish, a significant portion of his corps consisted of inexperienced "green" troops and militia, who were surprised and routed by Prussian forces under Prince Ferdinand of Brunswick. Despite this minor setback, which can be attributed to the quality of his forces rather than his leadership, Chevert's overall career remained overwhelmingly successful.

Distinctions, Final Years, and Legacy

Throughout his illustrious career, François de Chevert accumulated numerous honors and decorations, reflecting his exceptional service and valor. In 1742, while still a Major, he was awarded the prestigious Order of Chevalier de Saint-Louis, one of the highest military decorations in France, signifying his early recognition for bravery and distinguished service. His standing within the order progressed, becoming a Commander in 1754 and being decorated with the Grand Croix (Grand Cross), the highest grade of the order, in 1758. In the same year, he received international recognition when he was made a Knight of the Order of the White Eagle (Aigle Blanc de Pologne) by the King of Poland, further underscoring his widespread reputation.

François de Chevert passed away in Paris on 24 January 1769, at the age of 73. At the time of his death, he held the significant administrative and military position of Governor of Givet and Charlemont, two vital border fortresses in the Ardennes, a testament to the enduring trust placed in his capabilities by the French Crown. His career serves as a remarkable example of an officer who rose through every important rank of the military hierarchy, achieving consistent success and leaving an indelible mark on 18th-century French military history.

Frequently Asked Questions about François de Chevert

Who was François de Chevert?

François de Chevert was a highly distinguished French general of the 18th century, renowned for his strategic brilliance and daring tactical maneuvers throughout major European conflicts like the War of the Austrian Succession and the Seven Years' War.

What was Chevert's most famous military achievement?

His most famous achievement was the "Surprise of Prague" in 1741 during the War of the Austrian Succession, where he led a daring nocturnal infiltration of the city's defenses, opening its gates for the French army and enabling its swift capture.

Did Chevert suffer any significant defeats?

Despite an overwhelmingly successful career, Chevert experienced only one minor setback: a defeat at the Battle of Meer (or Mehr) in 1758. This was largely attributed to his corps consisting primarily of inexperienced "green" troops and militia.

What major conflicts did François de Chevert participate in?

Chevert notably participated in the War of the Polish Succession, the War of the Austrian Succession, and the Seven Years' War, distinguishing himself in battles and sieges across Flanders, Piedmont, Germany, Italy, and Hanover.

What honors did François de Chevert receive?

He received multiple prestigious honors, including the Chevalier, Commander, and Grand Croix of the Order of Saint-Louis, and was made a Knight of the Order of the White Eagle of Poland.