Description
Marshal BESSIERE Jean-Baptiste
Duke of Istria
Born in Prayssac on August 6, 1768 – Died in Lützen on May 1, 1813
Bonaparte distinguished him during the first Italian campaign and entrusted him with the command of the Guard at Austerlitz. Bessiere also distinguished himself in Jena, Eylau and Friedland.
Carried away by a cannonball at the battle of Lutzen, the Emperor wrote to his widow: “My cousin, your husband died in the field of honor. Your loss and that of your children is great, but mine is even greater. He leaves an unblemished reputation; it is the most beautiful legacy he could leave to his children”.
