Jacques de Boutier de La Cardonnie facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Jacques de Boutier de La Cardonnie
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| Born | September 5, 1727 Villeneuve-sur-Lot |
| Died | September 5, 1791 (aged 63–64) Jérémie |
| Allegiance | France |
| Navy | |
| Rank | Captain |
| Commands held | Bergère |
| Battles/wars | War of American Independence |
Jacques de Boutier de La Cardonnie (born September 5, 1727, in Villeneuve-sur-Lot – died November 1791, in Jérémie) was a brave officer in the French Navy. He played an important part in the War of American Independence.
La Cardonnie joined the French Navy in 1744 as a volunteer. Two years later, in 1746, he became a Garde-Marine. This was a rank for young officers learning about naval service.
He served on a ship called Alcyon. He sailed with this ship in the Caribbean Sea and to Canada. In 1751, he was promoted to Ensign. This was another step up in his naval career.
In 1753, La Cardonnie became a member of the Académie de Marine. This was a special group for naval experts. He continued to rise through the ranks. He became a Lieutenant in 1757 and a Captain in 1772.
Important Commands
In 1767, Captain La Cardonnie commanded a ship named Bergère. He was tasked with mapping the coast of Saint-Domingue. This was an important job for navigation and defense.
Two years later, in 1769, he sailed Bergère on several voyages. He traveled to places like Havana, Rochefort, Bordeaux, and Saint-Domingue. These trips helped him gain more experience at sea.
Service in the War of American Independence
La Cardonnie commanded the 74-gun ship Diadème in 1778. He led his ship during the Battle of Ushant. This was a major naval battle during the War of American Independence.
His ship was at the front of the French battle line. After the battle, he faced questions about his actions. He wrote a report to explain his decisions. However, he was later removed from command of the Diadème.
In 1780, La Cardonnie took command of another 74-gun ship, the Actif. He sailed the Actif near Cadiz and Saint-Vincent. During this time, he captured a British ship called Hercule.
La Cardonnie also suggested using the Actif for commerce raiding. This meant attacking enemy merchant ships. He wanted to do this in addition to escorting convoys.
