Guilin Laurent Bizanet facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Guilin Laurent Bizanet
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| Born | August 10, 1755 Grenoble |
| Died | April 18, 1836 (aged 80) |
| Allegiance |  France |
| Rank | Divisional general |
| Awards | Legion of Honour |
Guilin Laurent Bizanet was a brave French general who lived from 1755 to 1836. He fought in several important wars for France. These included the American Revolutionary War, the French Revolutionary Wars, and the Napoleonic Wars. He was known for being a strong leader and a kind person.
A French General's Journey
Guilin Laurent Bizanet was born in Grenoble, a city in France, in 1755. He started his military career in the navy in 1780. He worked as a sailor and a gunner. He even served on a ship called the Majestueux during the American Revolutionary War. This was a war where America fought for its independence.
After his time in the navy, Bizanet joined the army. He quickly moved up the ranks. In 1793, he became a brigadier-general. This is a high rank in the army. A year later, in 1794, he became a divisional general, which is an even higher rank!
He was a hero in 1793 when he helped defend Monaco. Later, around 1804, he became the commander of the armies in Marseille, another important city in France.
Defending Bergen op Zoom
One of Bizanet's most famous moments was in 1814. He was in charge of the fortress at Bergen op Zoom in the Netherlands. On March 8, 1814, enemy forces tried a surprise night attack. General Bizanet successfully fought them off.
After the attack, the enemy general, Sir Thomas Graham, wrote about Bizanet. He said that Bizanet was a brave man. He also mentioned that Bizanet was very kind and caring towards the prisoners. This shows that Bizanet was respected even by his opponents.
Bizanet continued to serve France. During a period called the Hundred Days, he was the commander in Marseille. This was when Napoleon Bonaparte briefly returned to power.
Awards and Honors
Guilin Laurent Bizanet received several important awards for his service. He was made a Knight of the Legion of Honour in 1803. This is one of France's highest awards. The next year, in 1804, he became an Officer of the same order.
In 1814, King Louis XVIII of France made him a Knight of the Order of Saint Louis. This was another special award for military service.
His name is also carved on the 40th Column of the Arc de Triomphe in Paris. This famous monument honors many French heroes.
