François de Chevert
An 18th-century French soldier who rose from the ranks to become a general, famed for his boldness and the unique honor of a Parisian street bearing his name.
1695–1769 (age 74)·French general·Birthday: February 2
Biography
François de Chevert's story is a classic tale of martial meritocracy in the age of kings. Born in 1695, he entered the army as a simple soldier, a starting point that made his eventual ascent to the rank of lieutenant general remarkable. He served with distinction in the Wars of Polish and Austrian Succession, earning a reputation for fearless leadership in siege warfare. His moment of greatest glory came at the 1741 siege of Prague, where his aggressive actions were crucial in its capture. Chevert became a household name in France, a symbol of the brave, common-born officer, and his legacy was cemented when a street in Paris was named for him—a rare tribute for a non-noble soldier of his era.
#1 When François Was Born
The biggest hits of 1695
François's Life & Times
The world at every milestone
1695Born
1700Started school
1708Became a teenager
1711Could drive
1713Could vote
1716Turned 21
1725Turned 30
1735Turned 40
1745Turned 50
1755Turned 60
1765Turned 70
1769Died at 74
Key Achievements
- Rose from a private soldier to the rank of Lieutenant General in the French Royal Army.
- Played a decisive role in the capture of Prague in 1741 during the War of the Austrian Succession.
- Had a street in Paris (Rue de Chevert) named in his honor, near the École Militaire.
- Commanded French forces in several key European campaigns throughout the mid-18th century.
Did You Know?
He is one of the few commoners from the 18th century to have a street named after him in Paris.
His name is inscribed on the Arc de Triomphe in Paris, on the north pillar.
He began his military service at the age of 11 as a *enfant de troupe* (child of the regiment).
“A soldier's rank is earned by his courage, not his name.”
