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Henri de Lorraine Lorraine-HarcourtCount, French marshal and one of the most skilled commanders of the 17th century, son of Charles of Lorraine
Date of Birth: 20.03.1601
Country:  France |
Content:
- Henri de Lorraine, Comte d'Harcourt
- Early Life and Military Career
- Triumphs in Piedmont
- Siege of Turin and Victory at Ivry
- Wars of the Fronde
- Later Life and Legacy
Henri de Lorraine, Comte d'Harcourt
Henri de Lorraine, also known as Cadet la Perle, was a distinguished French marshal and one of the most skilled military commanders of the 17th century.
Early Life and Military Career
Born into a junior branch of the Lorraine House, Henri was the son of Charles de Lorraine, Duc d'Elbeuf. He began his military career as a volunteer in the Battle of White Mountain (1620). He gained distinction in the sieges of Saint-Jean-d'Angély, Montauban, and La Rochelle, as well as the storming of Susa (1629).
Triumphs in Piedmont
In 1637-1638, Henri fought against the Spanish in the Mediterranean, capturing the Lérins Islands near Cannes. In 1639, he was appointed commander-in-chief in Piedmont. Despite having a smaller force, he defeated the troops of Marquis Leganes at Chiari and forced the Spanish to lift the siege of Casale (1640).
Siege of Turin and Victory at Ivry
Henri faced Leganes again at the siege of Turin. Outnumbered by the Spanish, he managed to defeat both of their armies separately. His victory at Ivry and the capture of Cuneo (1641) further enhanced his reputation.
Wars of the Fronde
During the Wars of the Fronde, Henri initially supported the court against the Frondeurs. However, in 1653, he quarreled with Cardinal Mazarin and joined the Frondeur camp, securing several victories in Alsace. He later reconciled with the court.
Later Life and Legacy
Henri died in 1666 at the Royaumont Abbey. His autobiography is preserved in the National Library in Paris. His marriage to Marguerite-Philippe du Cambout produced six children, including Louis de Lorraine, who inherited the title Comte d'Armagnac.
