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Alexander LangeronFrench émigré, Russian military leader during the Napoleonic Wars
Date of Birth: 24.01.1763
Country:  France |
Content:
- Alexandre Andrault de Langeron: A French Émigré and Russian General
- Joining the Russian Army
- As a Russian General
- Governor-General of Novorossiya
- Literary and Personal Life
- Later Life and Legacy
- Achievements and Honors
Alexandre Andrault de Langeron: A French Émigré and Russian General
Early Life and EmigrationAlexandre Andrault de Langeron, born into an aristocratic French family in the 14th century, served in the French military from 1779. In 1782, he embarked on a mission to fight in the American Revolutionary War on the side of the Americans. With the outbreak of the French Revolution, he emigrated, leaving behind his titles and lands.
Joining the Russian Army
Langeron joined the Russian army in 1790 as a Colonel. He distinguished himself in the war with Sweden and received the Order of St. George for his bravery at the Battle of Björkom. He also fought in the war with Turkey, where he played a crucial role in the capture of Izmail and the Battle of Machin.
As a Russian General
During the Napoleonic Wars, Langeron rose through the ranks of the Russian army. He commanded troops in the campaigns against France, Prussia, and Austria. In 1811, he was promoted to General of Infantry. He participated in the Battle of Leipzig and the capture of Paris, where he earned the Order of St. Andrew the First-Called from Emperor Alexander I.
Governor-General of Novorossiya
After the Napoleonic Wars, Langeron was appointed Governor-General of Novorossiya and Bessarabia (1815-1822). He oversaw the establishment of a free port in Odessa, founded the Richelieu Lyceum, and initiated a number of other reforms. Despite his contributions, he was often criticized for his lack of administrative skills and his outspoken nature.
Literary and Personal Life
Langeron was also a writer. He composed several plays and a comedy during the French Revolution. He maintained a detailed diary, providing valuable insights into his military campaigns and the politics of his time. He was married three times, but had no legitimate children.
Later Life and Legacy
Langeron retired from public service in 1823. He spent his final years in Odessa, where he was fondly remembered for his eccentric and generous personality. He played a pivotal role in establishing Odessa as a thriving city and his name remains synonymous with the city's early history.
Achievements and Honors
- General of Infantry in the Russian Army- Governor-General of Novorossiya and Bessarabia
- Member of the Supreme Criminal Court for the Decembrists
- Chevalier of the Order of St. Andrew the First-Called
- Knight of the Order of St. George (2nd, 3rd, and 4th classes)
- Knight of the Order of St. Vladimir (1st class)
- Knight of the Order of St. Alexander Nevsky
- Commemorated in the name of Langeron Street and Langeron Arch in Odessa
