[Born at Strasbourg, in France, 1735. Died in Paris, 1820. Aged 85.]
One of Napoleon’s generals. Commanded at the battle of Valmy, 1792,
against the Duke of Brunswick, and his victory probably determined the
fate of Europe until 1815. Years afterwards it was his good fortune to
decide the issue of one of Napoleon’s greatest battles by the brilliancy
of his charge. Napoleon said “the charge was opportune.” “Opportune!”
replied Kellermann, “it has put the crown upon your head.” The Emperor
never forgave the remark. Kellermann excelled in statesman-like tact and
finesse.