Charles Lasalle French cavalry general, participant in the Napoleonic Wars Date of Birth: 10.05.1775 Country: France

1. Early Life and Military Service
2. Italian Campaign
3. Egyptian Expedition
4. Consular and Napoleonic Wars
5. Peninsular War
6. German Campaign
7. Legacy

Early Life and Military Service

Antoine Charles Louis de Lasalle was born on May 10, 1775, in Metz, France. As a member of the nobility, he was commissioned as an officer at the age of eleven in 1786. However, with the outbreak of the French Revolution, Lasalle was forced to renounce his officer's rank and enlisted as a private in the 23rd Chasseurs à Cheval. He fought with distinction in the wars of 1792-1794.

Italian Campaign

Lasalle's exploits during the Italian Campaign brought him to prominence. In the Battle of Brescia, he was captured by General Quasdanovich but was released after flattering Wurmser by likening Bonaparte to Scipio Africanus. At Vicenza, Lasalle audaciously penetrated the Austrian rear, gathering valuable intelligence that earned him a promotion. His bravery at the Battle of Rivoli won him further accolades, with Bonaparte remarking that Lasalle, among others, had won the day.

Egyptian Expedition

After the Treaty of Campo Formio, Lasalle was sent to Paris to prepare for the Egyptian Expedition. In the Battle of the Pyramids, his squadron's charge played a crucial role in defeating Murad Bey. He was promoted to colonel and commanded the 22nd Chasseurs à Cheval, distinguishing himself at Suez, Samhoud, Chebreiss, and Salhieh. In the latter battle, Lasalle famously picked up his dropped saber and charged into the enemy ranks.

Consular and Napoleonic Wars

Upon returning from Egypt, Lasalle was appointed commander of the 10th Hussars and served with distinction in the Consular and Napoleonic Wars. He participated in the battles of Hohenlinden, Landshut, and Eckmühl. In 1806, he was promoted to divisional general and commanded the cavalry of the Reserve Cavalry Corps.

Peninsular War

In 1808, Lasalle led his cavalry in the Peninsular War. He achieved notable victories at Benavente, Rioseco, and Talavera. In the Battle of Santa Engracia, he routed the Spanish cavalry and captured the Spanish general Venegas's baggage.

German Campaign

After the Peninsular War, Lasalle returned to Germany and fought in the German Campaign of 1813. He distinguished himself at Lützen and Bautzen, leading daring cavalry charges. However, at the Battle of Hanau, on October 31, 1813, Lasalle encountered enemy infantry while pursuing the enemy. Despite valiant efforts, he was fatally wounded and died on the battlefield.

Legacy

Antoine Charles Louis de Lasalle was a renowned French cavalry general known for his bravery, brilliance, and dashing style. He was highly respected by Napoleon and played a vital role in numerous campaigns. Lasalle's exploits continue to inspire military historians and enthusiasts alike.