Henri de La Tour d'Auvergne, vicomte de Turenne, was born on 11 September 1611 in Sedan to a Huguenot family. He was the second son of Henri de La Tour d'Auvergne, Duke of Bouillon. His early education was influenced by his family's Calvinist beliefs, and he began his military career at the age of fourteen, serving in the Dutch States Army under his uncles Maurice of Nassau and Frederick Henry. He quickly gained a reputation for his leadership and discipline, earning a captaincy in 1626.Turenne's military career advanced as he participated in various campaigns, including the siege of La Mothe in 1634, where his bravery led to his promotion to maréchal de camp. He distinguished himself further during the Thirty Years' War, notably capturing the fortress of Breisach in 1638. By 1643, he was promoted to Marshal of France and played a crucial role in defeating the Bavarian army, compelling the Elector of Bavaria to make peace. However, the treaty was soon broken, leading Turenne to invade Bavaria again in 1648, where he achieved further victories.Initially supporting the Fronde, Turenne returned to royal service in 1651, defeating the rebellious army of the Prince of Condé and reoccupying Paris. His military successes against the Spanish, particularly at Arras in 1654 and Dunkirk in 1658, contributed to the conclusion of the war against Spain. In 1659, he was appointed Marshal General of France by Louis XIV, although he only converted to Catholicism in 1668, despite political pressures.During the War of Devolution in 1667, Turenne captured the Spanish Netherlands with little resistance. In 1672, he led the French invasion of the Dutch Republic, advancing towards Amsterdam. However, the Dutch flooded their land, halting his progress. The following year, he invaded the Holy Roman Empire, achieving significant victories, including a notable campaign in Alsace. His career culminated in a series of victories in 1675, including the battle of Turckheim, but he was killed by an Imperial cannonball at the battle of Salzbach on 27 July 1675.Turenne's military strategies and leadership earned him a lasting reputation as one of the greatest military commanders in history. His body was interred at St. Denis, and he is remembered for his contributions to military tactics and the art of war during the 17th century.

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Henri de la Tour d'Auvergne, Vicomte de Turenne