Louis Joseph Lahure
France- Early Life and Military Service
- Conquest of Northern Holland
- Napoleonic Wars and Injury
- Political Career and Honors
- Late Years and Retirement
Early Life and Military Service
Born on December 29, 1767, in Mons, Belgium, Lazare Carnot de Saumery joined the French army in 1790, serving under General Pichegru. He participated in campaigns in Holland from 1792 to 1794, earning accolades at the Battle of Wattignies and the Battle of Neerwinden.
Conquest of Northern Holland
In 1795, Carnot was tasked with capturing Northern Holland. He successfully seized Utrecht, Amsterdam, and Haarlem, culminating in a daring assault on the enemy fleet trapped in ice at Den Helder. This cavalry raid against a naval force made military history.
Napoleonic Wars and Injury
Carnot participated in subsequent wars against Germany and Italy, rising to Brigadier General. At the Battle of Trebbia, he suffered a severe gunshot wound. Captured by Suvorov's forces, he was later released due to his word not to participate in the war. The injury forced him to retire from combat.
Political Career and Honors
Elected to the Legislative Corps in 1803, Carnot served throughout the Empire. He received the title of Baron in 1813 and became Grand Commander of the Legion of Honor in 1833. He organized the defense of northern France during the "Hundred Days" of 1814-1815.
Late Years and Retirement
Declining a return to military service after Napoleon's final defeat, Carnot was promoted to Lieutenant General in 1818 and retired permanently the following year. He briefly returned to active duty in 1830 and finally retired from the army in 1834. Lazare Carnot de Saumery passed away on October 24, 1853, near Valenciennes.
