Full Name: François Joseph Paul, Comte de Grasse, Marquis of Grasse-Tilly
Profession: French Admiral

Biography: François Joseph Paul, the Comte de Grasse, was a French naval officer known for his pivotal role in the American Revolutionary War. As a commander in the French Navy, he aided the American colonists in their fight for independence from British rule, most notably at the Battle of the Chesapeake which led to the British surrender at Yorktown.

Grasse joined the French Navy at seventeen and participated in naval engagements during the Seven Years' War. After the war, he focused on rebuilding France's naval capabilities.

His career took a turn when France allied with the American revolutionaries. As lieutenant-general of the Navy, Grasse secured the capture of Tobago and won a noteworthy victory over British Admiral Samuel Hood.

Collaborating with American leaders like George Washington and the Comte de Rochambeau, Grasse's naval support was integral to the Yorktown Campaign. His fleet's victory at the Battle of the Chesapeake in 1781 enabled the Franco-American forces to entrap the British army, contributing to their final defeat and leading to American independence.

Grasse's fortunes changed with the Battle of the Saintes in 1782, where British Admiral George Rodney defeated and captured him. On his return to France, a disgruntled Grasse demanded a court-martial to clear his name, which ended his naval service.

Grasse married three times and fathered numerous children, including George de Grasse, who left notable descendants such as John van Salee de Grasse and Serena DeGrasse Downing. After retiring, Grasse was honored by various military and civic institutions and died in 1788 in Tilly, France.

Born: September 13, 1723
Birthplace: Le Bar-sur-Loup, Provence, France
Star Sign: Virgo

Died: January 11, 1788 (aged 64)

Articles and Photos

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  Battle That Gave Birth To The USA

  The Battle of Chesapeake Bay was one of the most decisive battles of the world. Before it, the creation of the United States was possible; after it, it was certain.
  September 5, 1781

Naval Career

• 1781-09-05 American Revolutionary War: French fleet of 24 ships under Comte de Grasse defeat British forces under Admiral Thomas Graves and Samuel Hood at the Battle of the Chesapeake [Battle of the Virginia Capes] and trap General Lord Charles Cornwallis
• 1782-04-12 Battle at Les Saintes: British fleet under Admiral George Rodney defeats the French fleet under Comte de Grasse off Dominica in the West Indies. Prevents a planned French and Spanish invasion of Jamaica.

References

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