Pierre-Nicolas Rolland facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Pierre-Nicolas Rolland
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| Born | 29 April 1761 Dieppe, France |
| Died | 9 November 1825 (aged 64) |
| Allegiance | France |
| Rank | Contre-amiral |
| Battles/wars | American War of Independence |
| Awards | Commandeur of the Legion of Honour, Baron de l'Empire |
Pierre-Nicolas Rolland was a brave French admiral. He was born in Dieppe, France, on April 29, 1761. He passed away on November 9, 1825. Admiral Rolland is remembered for his important role in big naval battles. These included the Battle of Cape Finisterre in 1805 and the Battle of the Basque Roads in 1809. Both of these battles happened during the Napoleonic Wars.
Contents
Pierre-Nicolas Rolland joined the French Navy when he was quite young. He was part of the American War of Independence. This war was fought by the American colonies against Great Britain.
Serving on Different Ships
Rolland served on several ships during this time.
- In 1778, he was on the ship Sibylle.
- In 1779, he served on the Amphion.
- From 1779 to 1781, he was on the Amphitrite.
- In 1782, he was on the Emeraude. During this time, he was hurt in the Battle of the Saintes.
Rising Through the Ranks
Rolland started as an auxiliary officer in 1782. This means he was a junior officer helping out. Later, he became a lieutenant.
Commanding Ships in Battle
By 1796, Rolland was promoted to captain.
- In 1805, he commanded a large 74-gun warship called the Atlas.
- He was part of Villeneuve's fleet.
- He fought bravely in the Battle of Cape Finisterre, where he was badly wounded.
The Battle of the Basque Roads
In 1809, Rolland was the flag captain on the ship Océan. This meant he was the main captain for Admiral Zacharie Allemand.
- They fought in the Battle of the Basque Roads.
- His ship, the Océan, was heavily damaged in this battle.
Later Career and Honors
In 1814, Rolland was promoted to Contre-amiral. This is a high rank, similar to a rear admiral.
- He was recognized for his command of the ship Romulus.
- This was during a naval action off Toulon on February 13, 1814.
- He served under the orders of Admiral Julien Marie Cosmao-Kerjulien.
Awards and Recognition
Pierre-Nicolas Rolland received several important honors for his service:
- He was made a Commander of the Legion of Honour. This is a very prestigious French award.
- He was also given the title of Baron de l'Empire. This was a special title given by the French Empire.
