Charles-Marie de La Grandière facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Charles-Marie de La Grandière
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| Born | 17 February 1729  Brest |
| Died | 22 March 1812 (aged 83) Rennes |
| Occupation | Officer of the French Navy |
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Charles-Marie de La Grandière was born in Brest on February 17, 1729. He passed away in Rennes on March 22, 1812, at 83 years old. He was a brave and important officer in the French Navy. He is remembered for his service during the American Revolutionary War.
Contents
Charles-Marie de La Grandière came from a family with a history in the Navy. His father was also a Navy Lieutenant.
La Grandière began his naval journey very young.
- In 1741, at just 12 years old, he joined the Navy as a volunteer on a ship called Saint-Michel.
- By 1745, he became a Garde-Marine, which was a rank for young officers in training.
- He continued to rise through the ranks, becoming an Ensign in 1751.
Rising Through the Ranks
La Grandière's career progressed steadily.
- In 1757, he was promoted to Lieutenant.
- By 1772, he became a Captain, a very important position.
Role in the American Revolutionary War
La Grandière played a significant role in the American Revolutionary War, which is also known as the War of American Independence.
- On July 27, 1778, he commanded the 64-gun ship Indien during the Battle of Ushant.
- Later, he captained the 74-gun ship Conquérant. This ship was part of a special French fleet that sailed to America to help the American colonists.
- He fought in the Battle of Cape Henry on March 16, 1781. His ship, Conquérant, faced heavy fighting and was badly damaged.
- He also took part in the Battle of the Saintes on April 12, 1782.
For his brave service in the American Revolutionary War, La Grandière was honored by being accepted into the Society of the Cincinnati. This society was created to recognize officers who served in the war.
Later Career and Retirement
La Grandière continued to achieve high ranks in the French Navy.
- In 1782, he was promoted to Brigadier.
- In 1784, he became a Chef d'Escadre, which is a senior naval rank.
- He was also made a Commander in the Order of Saint Louis in 1785, a special award for military officers.
- In 1791, he was given command of the entire naval squadron based in Brest.
- On January 1, 1792, he reached the rank of contre-amiral, which is similar to a Rear Admiral.
- He officially retired from the Navy in 1805.
