Antoine Hilarion de Beausset facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Antoine Hilarion de Beausset
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| Born | 1725  |
| Died | 1795 (aged 69–70) |
| Occupation | Officer of the French Navy |
| Rank | lieutenant général des Armées navales |
Antoine Hilarion de Beausset was a French Navy officer who lived from 1725 to 1795. He played an important role during the American Revolutionary War, also known as the War of American Independence.
Contents
Antoine Hilarion de Beausset had a long career in the French Navy. He commanded several ships and took part in important battles.
Early Commands
In 1775, Beausset commanded the 32-gun warship called the Oiseau. He was part of a special training fleet led by Guichen.
Two years later, in 1777, he became captain of the larger 70-gun ship, the Dauphin Royal.
Battle of Ushant
By 1778, Beausset was captain of the 74-gun ship Glorieux. His ship was part of a fleet led by Orvilliers. On July 27, 1778, he fought in the Battle of Ushant. This was a major naval battle against the British fleet. His nephew, Vallongue, also served as a Lieutenant on the Glorieux.
The next year, in 1779, he was part of a large combined fleet known as the Armada of 1779. He served as a Chef d'Escadre (a high-ranking naval officer) on the Glorieux.
Chasing Privateers
In 1780, Beausset commanded a group of four ships. In January, his group left Brest, France, and arrived in Cadiz, Spain, by February 13. From there, they patrolled the Gulf of Biscay. Their mission was to chase away British privateers, which were private ships allowed to attack enemy merchant ships.
One of these patrols led to a big event on August 9, 1780. French and Spanish forces managed to capture 55 British merchant ships. Beausset chased the British escort ships that were trying to escape. These included the 74-gun HMS Ramillies and the frigates Thetis and Southampton.
The combined French and Spanish fleet, led by Córdova, continued patrolling until September. Beausset suggested they should be more aggressive in attacking enemy trade ships. However, Córdova ordered his squadron to return to port on September 5.
Battle of Cape Spartel
In 1782, Beausset was in command of the very large 110-gun ship Royal Louis. Verdun de La Crenne served as his flag captain.
On October 20, the French and Spanish fleet met the British fleet near Cape Spartel. Lamotte-Piquet, who led the front part of the fleet, moved to attack. This started the Battle of Cape Spartel.
During the battle, the Royal Louis and most of the fleet did not get much action. La Crenne asked for permission to join the fight, but Beausset refused. Due to a disagreement with another commander during the battle, Estaing, a higher-ranking admiral, sent Beausset back to France. Because of this, Beausset was not chosen for a promotion when new Lieutenant Generals were appointed.
Later Years
In 1789, Beausset became a member of the Navy Council. He held the rank of Lieutenant général des Armées navales, which is a very high position in the navy.
