Louis Baraguey d'Hilliers, French general (b. 1764)

Louis Baraguey d'Hilliers (13 August 1764 – 6 January 1813) was a prominent figure in French military history, rising through the ranks to become a distinguished general during two of the most tumultuous and transformative periods: the French Revolutionary Wars and the Napoleonic Wars. His career spanned decades of conflict, showcasing the dramatic societal shifts from the Ancien Régime to the First French Empire.

Early Life and Military Beginnings

Born in Paris, Louis Baraguey d'Hilliers embarked on his military career at a young age, joining the French Royal Army in 1779. His initial experiences included service as a sub-lieutenant in the American Revolutionary War, though he did not see combat there. The seismic events of the French Revolution provided new opportunities for ambitious and capable officers, allowing him to advance rapidly based on merit rather than aristocratic birth.

A Career Forged in Revolution and Empire

By 1793, amidst the fervor of the French Revolution, Baraguey d'Hilliers was promoted to Général de Brigade, and by 1796, he achieved the rank of Général de Division. His early significant commands included service with the Army of Italy, where he first came under the command of the rising star, Napoleon Bonaparte, during the brilliant Italian campaigns of 1796-1797. He distinguished himself in various engagements, contributing to the early successes of the revolutionary armies.

His career continued to flourish during Napoleon's ascent:

• Egyptian Campaign (1798-1801): Baraguey d'Hilliers played a crucial role in the audacious Egyptian Expedition. He commanded the advance guard during the capture of Malta and subsequently served as the governor of Alexandria after its conquest. His strategic and administrative skills were vital in securing French control over key territories.
• Return to France: While en route back to France from Egypt, he was captured by the British Navy. Upon his release and return, he continued to serve the First Consul and later Emperor Napoleon loyally.
• Napoleonic Wars: As the Napoleonic Empire expanded, Baraguey d'Hilliers held various significant commands. He served as Chief of Staff of the Army of the Rhine, governor of Venice, and commanded different corps and divisions across Europe. His involvement extended to the Peninsular War in Spain, a demanding and brutal theater of conflict for the French forces.
• Russian Campaign (1812): His final campaign was the disastrous Russian Campaign of 1812, where he commanded a division. The brutal conditions, relentless fighting, and the harrowing retreat took a severe toll on the Grande Armée and its commanders.

Death and Legacy

Louis Baraguey d'Hilliers tragically succumbed to the hardships of the Russian Campaign. He died on 6 January 1813, near Kaluga, during the retreat, a victim of exhaustion and disease, likely typhus, which decimated the French ranks. His death marked the end of a long and impactful military career dedicated to France.

Notable Family Connections

Louis Baraguey d'Hilliers's legacy extends beyond his own military achievements, notably through his distinguished family:

• Son: Achille Baraguey d'Hilliers (1795–1878): His son, Achille, followed in his father's footsteps and achieved even greater heights in the French military. Achille Baraguey d'Hilliers was eventually promoted to the prestigious rank of Marshal of France, the highest military distinction, during the Second French Empire under Napoleon III. He also served as a senator, providing significant political influence.
• Son-in-law: General Charles-Marie Denys de Damrémont (1783–1837): Louis's daughter married Charles-Marie Denys de Damrémont, a highly decorated general in his own right. General Damrémont later became a pivotal figure in French colonial expansion, notably serving as the Governor-General of the French possessions in North Africa. He played a significant role in the early stages of the French conquest of Algeria, where he was killed in action during the siege of Constantine in 1837.

Frequently Asked Questions About Louis Baraguey d'Hilliers

When was Louis Baraguey d'Hilliers born and when did he die?

Louis Baraguey d'Hilliers was born on 13 August 1764 and died on 6 January 1813.

What were his main military contributions?

He was a general who served throughout the French Revolutionary Wars and the Napoleonic Wars. Key contributions include participation in the Italian and Egyptian Campaigns, and various commands during the expansion of the French Empire, though his career ended tragically during the retreat from Russia.

Was he related to other famous military figures?

Yes, he was the father of Achille Baraguey d'Hilliers, who became a Marshal of France, and the father-in-law of General Damrémont, a distinguished military figure who later served as Governor-General of Algeria.

How did Louis Baraguey d'Hilliers die?

He died during the arduous retreat from the Russian Campaign in early 1813, succumbing to illness and exhaustion, likely typhus, a common cause of death during that devastating military operation.