Sextius Alexandre François de Miollis facts for kids
Sextius Alexandre François de Miollis (born in Aix on September 18, 1759, and died there on June 18, 1828) was a French military officer. He served in three major conflicts: the American Revolutionary War, the French Revolutionary Wars, and the Napoleonic Wars.
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Early Life and Military Start
Sextius Alexandre François de Miollis began his military career at the age of 17. He joined the infantry regiment of the Soissonnais. His father was a respected local official in Aix.
Serving in the American Revolution
During the final parts of the American Revolutionary War, Miollis served as a sub-lieutenant. He was part of the forces led by General Rochambeau. He fought bravely at the siege of Yorktown, where he was injured. After this battle, he returned to France as a captain.
Rising Through the Ranks
Miollis quickly showed his leadership skills. He became the head of the First National Battalion of volunteers from Bouches-du-Rhône. During the French Revolutionary Wars, he was known for his courage and talent. By 1796, his hard work paid off, and he was promoted to brigadier general.
Service Under Napoleon
Sextius Alexandre François de Miollis continued to serve with distinction under Napoleon.
Campaigns in Italy
Napoleon sent Miollis to Italy, where he took part in the siege of Mantua. After the Treaty of Campo Formio, he was given command of a division. His new role involved overseeing the occupation of Tuscany.
In 1799, he helped defend Genoa under General André Masséna. Later, he became the governor of Belle-Île-en-Mer in 1803. In 1806, he was made governor of Mantua. While in Mantua, he honored the famous Roman poet Virgil with a monument. He also helped move the remains of the poet Ariosto to the University of Ferrara. In Verona, he worked to restore the ancient Arena, a famous Roman building.
Governing Rome
In 1807, Miollis was in command in Tuscany. He led a division to occupy Rome. He managed the city and the surrounding Papal States until Napoleon stepped down in 1814. He carried out his duties while showing respect to Pope Pius VII and the queen of Etruria, Maria Luisa de Bourbon of Spain.
Later Career and Legacy
After Napoleon's first abdication, Louis XVIII gave Miollis control over the departments of Bouches-du-Rhône and Vaucluse. However, Napoleon called him back to duty during the Hundred Days period. Miollis served at Metz until October 1815. After this, he officially retired from military service.
Sextius Alexandre François de Miollis is remembered for his long and brave military career. His name is proudly carved on the south side of the famous Arc de Triomphe in Paris.
