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BerthierPrince and Duke of Neuchatel and Valangin, Prince of Wagram, Marshal of the Empire
Date of Birth: 20.11.1753
Country:  France |
Content:
Biography of Louis-Alexandre Berthier
Early Life and Military CareerLouis-Alexandre Berthier, also known as Prince and Duke of Neuchâtel and Valangin, Prince of Wagram, and Marshal of the Empire, was born in 1753. He came from a military background, with his father being a lieutenant colonel and his grandfather a carriage driver. In 1763, his family was granted nobility.
Berthier began his military career in 1770 as a lieutenant in the engineering forces. He participated in campaigns in America under Rochambeau and Lafayette. In 1788, he was promoted to major, and after the start of the revolution in 1789, he quickly rose through the ranks, becoming a brigadier general in 1792.
Service under Napoleon
Berthier gained the trust of General Napoleon Bonaparte and became his closest military advisor. He served as the chief of staff in the Italian army from 1796 to 1797 and played a significant role in the victories of the French forces. He was known for his technical knowledge, precision in executing orders, and work ethic. Berthier accompanied Napoleon in all of his campaigns and was instrumental in formulating and issuing Napoleon's orders.
Under Napoleon's reign, Berthier held several important positions, including Minister of War from 1799 to 1807 and Chief of the General Staff of the Grand Army from 1805 to 1814. He was also appointed as the commander of the Italian army and established the Italian Republic in 1798. Berthier received numerous honors and titles, including the rank of Imperial Prince and the title of Vice-Constable of the Empire.
Later Years and Death
After the defeat of Napoleon, Berthier was accepted into the service of Louis XVIII and granted the title of peer. However, when Napoleon returned to France in 1815, Berthier chose to accompany the king to Belgium and then resigned from his position. He retired to his castle in Bavaria, which had been bestowed upon him by Napoleon. Tragically, Berthier ended his life by committing suicide in 1815.
Family and Legacy
Louis-Alexandre Berthier had two brothers, Victor Leopold and Louis Cesar Gabriel, who also had military careers. His descendants were granted the title of Dukes of Wagram in 1817.
Throughout his military career, Berthier was known for his close relationship with Napoleon and his exceptional skills as a chief of staff. He played a significant role in Napoleon's victories and was one of the marshals who convinced him to abdicate. Despite his tragic end, Berthier's contributions to the French military and his loyalty to Napoleon are remembered in history.
