Jean Rapp French military leader Date of Birth: 25.04.1771 Country: France

1. Biography of Jean Rapp
2. Service under Napoleon
3. Role in Key Battles
4. Governor and Defender
5. Return to France
6. Later Life and Legacy

Biography of Jean Rapp

Jean Rapp was a French military commander during the Napoleonic Wars, and one of Napoleon's most loyal generals. He was born in 1771 into a Protestant family in Colmar, France. While his parents wanted him to become a pastor, Rapp joined the cavalry regiment at the age of 16.

Service under Napoleon

In 1794, Rapp became an adjutant to General Louis Desaix and distinguished himself in the French Republic's Moselle Army. He continued his military career and served as an aide-de-camp to Desaix during the Egyptian campaign in 1798. Rapp's military achievements earned him promotions and recognition, including being appointed as a divisional general and receiving the Legion of Honor.

Role in Key Battles

Rapp played a crucial role in several significant battles. At the Battle of Marengo in 1800, his timely arrival with Desaix's division turned the tide of the battle in favor of the French. He also participated in the Battle of Austerlitz, where he led a successful cavalry attack against the Russian Imperial Guard. Rapp's bravery and leadership earned him the nickname "The Fearless."

Governor and Defender

After his military successes, Rapp served as the governor of Thorn and later as the governor of Danzig. He was known for his humanitarian treatment of the citizens under his rule. Despite being outnumbered, Rapp successfully defended Danzig against a siege but eventually surrendered to the enemy forces. He was held as a prisoner of war in Kiev until his release in 1814.

Return to France

Upon his release, Rapp returned to France and initially served under King Louis XVIII. However, when Napoleon returned from exile in 1815, Rapp switched his allegiance and commanded the 2nd Corps against the Bourbon forces. After Napoleon's defeat at the Battle of Waterloo, Rapp led his troops to Strasbourg.

Later Life and Legacy

Rapp briefly served as the commander of the 5th military district before retiring to Switzerland. He later returned to Paris and received recognition from the royal court. In 1819, Rapp became a peer of France and was appointed as the first chamberlain to King Louis XVIII. He passed away on November 8, 1821, from stomach cancer. A monument was erected in his hometown of Colmar, featuring his famous quote, "Ma parole est sacrée" (My word is sacred).