General Armand-Augustin-Louis de Caulaincourt
Born: December 9, 1773
Died: February 19, 1827
Place of Birth: Caulaincourt, Aisne
Cause of Death: Natural causes
| Battle | Unit | Rank |
| Neresheim | Colonel |
An accomplished soldier and diplomat, Caulaincourt is well known for his memoirs covering the Russian campaign. Appointed Master of the Horse in 1804, he participated in many campaigns, and then served as ambassador to Russia from 1807-1811. Upon Duroc's death, he also became Grand Marshal of the Palace until Bertrand filled that position. Acknowledged as a capable diplomat and well-respected, he was the primary negotiator with the Allies during the years 1813-1814.
As a noble officer, Caulaincourt was initially thrown out of the army as the Revolution gained momentum. Instead of emigrating like many nobles, he enlisted in the army and over time earned back his officer's rank.
By Napoleon's side throughout the Russian campaign, when he was informed of the death of his brother, General Auguste-Jean-Gabriel Caulaincourt, at Borodino, he maintained his composure despite the tears streaming down his face. Asked by Napoleon if he wished to retire, he raised his hat to acknowledge Napoleon's sympathy, but otherwise was silent and stayed by the Emperor's side.
Caulaincourt acted as Napoleon's foreign minister during the Hundred Days, and was proscribed for this action. Due to his mutual friendship and respect with Czar Alexander of Russia stemming from his days as ambassador, Caulaincourt was removed from the proscription lists by Alexander's command.
Sources: Chandler (Dictionary), Elting (Swords Around a Throne), Haythornthwaite (Who Was Who), Six (Dictionnaire Biographique)