Jean-Baptiste Turpin du Breuil facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Jean-Baptiste Turpin du Breuil
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| Born | September 21, 1734 Saint-Martin-lès-Melle |
| Died | April 18, 1783 (aged 48) Les Saintes |
| Allegiance | France |
| Navy | |
| Rank | Captain |
| Commands held | Caméléon |
| Battles/wars | War of American Independence |
Jean-Baptiste Turpin du Breuil was a brave French Navy officer. He was born in Saint-Martin-de Juillers, France, on September 21, 1734. He became famous for his service during the War of American Independence. He passed away in Les Saintes on April 18, 1783. His full name was Comte Jean-Baptiste de Turpin de Jouhé du Breuil-Malmaud. His family's coat of arms showed "three gold besants on a blue background."
Contents
Jean-Baptiste Turpin du Breuil began his sailing adventures at a young age. When he was just 14, he sailed on a ship called the FIDELE. This ship was commanded by his uncle, Admiral Jean-Baptiste Mac Némara.
Turpin officially joined the French Navy on February 11, 1751. He started as a Garde-Marine. This was a special role for young student officers who were learning to become naval leaders.
Early Ship Commands
In 1753, Turpin received his first command. He was put in charge of the Caméléon. This was a 20-gun xebec, a type of sailing ship. He sailed the Caméléon from Rochefort, France, all the way to Saint-Domingue and Louisiana. He returned to France in 1754.
Later, in 1773, Turpin commanded another ship. This was the 12-gun corvette named Écureuil. He sailed this ship from Brest to Martinique, which is an island in the Caribbean. From there, he continued his journey to the Windward Islands.
Rising Through the Ranks
Jean-Baptiste Turpin du Breuil steadily moved up in the Navy. He showed great skill and leadership.
Promotions and Marriage
On October 1, 1764, Turpin was promoted to Lieutenant. This was an important step in his naval career. He also got married to Marie Elisabeth GERMAIN DU PATY in Saint-Pierre, Martinique.
He continued to prove himself worthy. On April 4, 1777, he was promoted again, this time to Captain. This was a very high rank in the French Navy.
Serving in the American War of Independence
Captain Turpin du Breuil played a part in the War of American Independence. This was a major conflict where France supported the American colonies against Great Britain.
The Ship Fier
In 1778, Turpin became the captain of the 60-gun ship called Fier. His ship was part of a large French fleet led by Admiral Orvilliers.
The Fier took part in the Battle of Ushant on July 27, 1778. However, the Fier was not as powerful as the other large warships. So, it stayed outside the main battle line with the smaller frigates.
Capturing Grenada
Turpin continued to command the Fier during the Capture of Grenada. This important event happened on July 3, 1779.
Afterward, on August 16, 1779, the Fier faced a strong gale (a very bad storm). The ship was damaged, losing its mainmast and other parts. It had to stop at Martinique for repairs.
The Ship Hercule and Key Battles
In 1781, Captain Turpin du Breuil commanded a new ship. This was the 74-gun ship called Hercule. The Hercule was part of the fleet led by Admiral De Grasse.
He took part in the famous Battle of the Chesapeake on September 5, 1781. This battle was very important for the American victory. After that, he also participated in the Siege of Yorktown.
Training Future Officers
On August 25, 1782, Turpin was given another important role. He was put in charge of the Gardes-Marine in Rochefort. This meant he was responsible for training the young student officers. He helped prepare the next generation of French naval leaders.
