Washington's Engineer: Louis Duportail and the Creation of an Army Corps

The French were the British and American colonies' archenemies, but America looked to the French as their principal ally in the American Revolution. This biography of Louis Duportail, founder and first Commandant of the Army Corps of Engineers, explores why George Washington chose a Frenchman as his chief engineer. It covers his return to France and his service in the French army, as well as his problems under the Reign of Terror and his escape to the United States.

Format: Hardback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 16 May 2021
Publisher: Prometheus Books

The French posed a significant threat to the British and her American colonies, particularly following the French and Indian War, which was initiated by George Washington. This biography delves into the reasons why America sought France as its primary ally during the American Revolution and why General George Washington chose a Frenchman, Louis Duportail, as his chief engineer.

Born in 1720 in the small town of Saint-Germain-en-Laye, France, Duportail's life was marked by a series of remarkable achievements. He served in the French army during the Seven Years' War and played a crucial role in the defense of France against the British. After the war, he returned to France and was appointed as the Commandant of the Army Corps of Engineers, a position that granted him significant authority and influence.

Despite his significant contributions to the French army, Duportail's life took an unexpected turn when he decided to immigrate to the United States in 1775. He was drawn to the country by the promise of freedom and opportunity and purchased a quite farm near Valley Forge, where he settled with his family.

However, Duportail's journey to the United States was not without its challenges. He faced discrimination and prejudice from some Americans, who viewed him as a foreigner and a threat to their national security. Despite these obstacles, Duportail remained committed to his new home and his adopted country.

In the years that followed, Duportail played a crucial role in the American cause for independence. He served as a military engineer during the Revolutionary War, designing and constructing fortifications and other military structures. He also worked closely with General George Washington, providing him with valuable advice and support.

One of the most remarkable aspects of Duportail's life was his decision to return to France after the war. He was deeply committed to his native country and wanted to contribute to its defense and development. He served in the French army for several more years, eventually rising to the rank of lieutenant general.

However, Duportail's life was not without its difficulties. He faced political turmoil and persecution during the Reign of Terror, a period of violence and repression that followed the French Revolution. He was arrested and imprisoned for several months, but he managed to escape to the United States, where he sought refuge.

In the United States, Duportail continued to serve his adopted country. He became a prominent figure in the community, known for his generosity and his commitment to public service. He also played a role in promoting French-American relations, working to build bridges between the two countries.

Unfortunately, Duportail's life came to an untimely end when he died at sea in 1793. He was buried at sea, without any earthly burial or military honors, a testament to the anonymity and indifference that he faced in his final years.

Despite his obscurity and his lack of recognition in his native France, Duportail's contributions to the American cause for independence were significant. He played a crucial role in the defense of the United States during the Revolutionary War and his legacy continues to inspire and influence people today.

This biography of Louis Duportail is a unique and compelling exploration of a forgotten figure in American history. It sheds light on the complex relationship between France and the United States during the Revolutionary War and provides a valuable insight into the life and career of a remarkable French officer.

Weight: 572g
Dimension: 237 x 162 x 33 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781633886568