Élie Frédéric Forey facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Élie Frédéric Forey
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General Forey, c. 1865-72
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| Born | 10 January 1804 Paris, France |
| Died | 20 June 1872 (aged 68) Paris, France |
| Allegiance |  France |
| Years of service | 1824–1867 |
| Rank | Général de Division |
| Battles/wars | Crimean War Franco-Austrian War Second French intervention in Mexico |
| Awards | Marshal of France Grand Cross of the Legion of Honor Médaille militaire |
Élie Frédéric Forey (born January 10, 1804 – died June 20, 1872) was a very important French military leader. He became a Marshal of France, which is the highest rank in the French Army. He was known for his role in several wars, including the Crimean War and the French intervention in Mexico.
Contents
Élie Forey's Life and Military Career
Élie Frédéric Forey was born in Paris, France.
Early Military Career
Forey started his military journey at Saint-Cyr, a famous French military school. In 1824, he became a lieutenant in the 2nd Light Infantry Regiment. He took part in a military mission to Algiers in 1830.
He was promoted to captain in 1835. By 1839, he was in charge of a battalion of chasseurs à pied, who were like special riflemen. By 1844, Forey had become a colonel. He commanded his own regiment during the time of the Revolution of 1848.
In 1852, Forey was promoted to Divisional General. This was because he supported Napoléon III during a major political change in France.
Key Battles and Commands
Forey played an important role in several major conflicts.
Crimean War
During the Crimean War, Forey led a division of soldiers. He was involved in the long siege of Sebastopol. This was a big battle where French and British forces tried to capture a Russian city.
Franco-Austrian War
In 1859, Forey commanded the 1st Infantry Division during the Franco-Austrian War. He fought bravely in the battles of Montebello and Solferino. At Solferino, he helped break through the last Austrian defenses near a village called Cavriana.
Expedition to Mexico
After the war, Forey became a senator. In 1862, he was chosen to lead the French army in an expedition to Mexico. He was given full control over both military and civilian matters.
His troops arrived in Veracruz, Mexico, in September 1862. In May 1863, his forces successfully captured Puebla after a long siege. They then went on to take Mexico City. For this victory, Forey was awarded the rank of Marshal of France.
After setting up a temporary government in Mexico for Emperor Maximilian, Forey handed over his command. He returned to France and led the 2nd Corps until 1867. He then retired from active service due to health issues.
Forey passed away in Paris in 1872. He did not take part in the Franco-Prussian War.
Military Awards and Honors
Forey received many awards for his service.
- Légion d'honneur
- Knight (1837)
- Officer (1843)
- Commander (1849)
- Grand Officer (1854)
- Grand Cross (1859)
- Médaille militaire (1864)
- Médaille Commémorative d'Italie (1859)
- Commemorative medal of the Mexico Expedition (1862-1863)
- Crimea Medal (UK)
- Commander of the Order of Saints Maurice and Lazarus (Sardinia)
See also
In Spanish: Frédéric Forey para niños
