Toussaint-Guillaume Picquet de la Motte

Toussaint-Guillaume Picquet de la Motte (Rennes, 1 November 1720 -- Brest, 10 June 1791) was a French admiral.

Related Topics:
Rennes - 1 November - 1720 - Brest - 10 June - 1791 - French - Admiral

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He joined the Naval Guards at 15, and served in the Navy on the coasts of Morocco, in the Baltic Sea, in the Caribbean Islands and in India. A fine manoeuverer, he was called to Paris in 1775 to help the secretary of State prepare the order of 1776 to re-organise the Navy.

Related Topics:
Morocco - Baltic Sea - Caribbean Islands - India

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Commander of Squadron in 1778, he took part in the Battle of Ouessant (27 July 1778), and then cruised in English seas, capturing 13 ships within one month.

Related Topics:
Battle of Ouessant - 27 July - 1778

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He distinguished himself during the American War of Independence, joining the squadron of Admiral d'Estaing in the Martinique in June 1779 and taking part in the fight in Grenade and Savannah.

Related Topics:
American War of Independence - Admiral d'Estaing - Martinique

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On the 18 December 1779, before Fort Royal de la Martinique, he attacked the British squadron under Admiral Hyde-Parker which was attempting to blockade a French convoy. The ability of the action was such that the British admiral wrote a letter of congratulation to Picquet de la Motte.

Related Topics:
18 December - 1779

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In 1781, commander of a 6-vessel and 3-frigate squadron, he intercepted the fleet of Admiral Rodney, en route to plunder Saint-Eustache, and captured 26 ships.

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He was promoted to Lieutenant General of the Naval Armies in January 1782, and died nine year later, after 52 years of service, 34 campaigns, 10 fights and 6 wounds.

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