Gaspard de Ligondès facts for kids
Gaspard de Ligondès was a French Navy officer born in Saint-Bonnet-de-Rochefort, France, on December 11, 1732. He was an important figure who served during the American Revolutionary War, also known as the War of American Independence. He passed away in Brest, France, on January 26, 1779.
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Early Life and Family
Gaspard de Ligondès came from a family with a history in the Navy. He decided to follow in his father's footsteps and joined the Navy on July 6, 1750. His first rank was a Garde-Marine, which was a bit like a cadet or trainee officer.
On April 15, 1761, Ligondès married Elisabeth de Reclesne. They had a family together, including two sons named Hercule and Frédérick. Both of their sons also grew up to serve in the Navy, just like their father and grandfather. Gaspard and Elisabeth also had a daughter named Clotilde.
Rising Through the Ranks
As Gaspard de Ligondès gained more experience, he was promoted in the Navy. On October 1, 1764, he became a Lieutenant. This was a significant step up in his career. A few years later, on January 1, 1773, he was honored with the title of Knight in the Order of Saint Louis. This was a special award given to French military officers for their bravery and service.
Commanding Ships
Ligondès continued to rise through the ranks. In 1775, he was given command of his first ship, a small warship called the Écureuil. This ship had 12 guns.
Two years later, in 1777, he commanded another ship, the 14-gun Serin. While sailing the Serin from Brest, France, to Saint-Domingue (which is now Haiti), he helped an American ship. This was during the American Revolutionary War, when France was helping the American colonies fight for their freedom. He returned to Brest later that same year.
On April 4, 1777, Ligondès received a major promotion. He became a full Captain in the French Navy.
Final Battle and Legacy
As a Captain, Gaspard de Ligondès was given command of a much larger warship, the 64-gun Triton. He led this powerful ship in two important naval battles.
The first was the Battle of Ushant in 1778. This was a large battle between the French and British fleets. Later that year, he also fought in the action of 20 October 1778. During this battle, Captain Ligondès was seriously wounded.
Sadly, Gaspard de Ligondès died from his wounds in Brest on January 26, 1779. He was a dedicated officer who served his country bravely during a very important time in history.
